Well, I can tell you that in the Private section, it's very serious talk about our most painful and private traumas. Moderated members are not allowed because they have not yet shown Anthony that they are here because they have a ligitimate trauma or really are a carer, rather than just some fool spammer or someone looking for information to write a research paper. I have not seen any "how was your weekend?" stuff, or jokes or other light smalltalk in the Private area because that stuff can be said in the General section.

It takes more than just not being moderated anymore to get access to the Private section. If it were just that single limitation, then it would be as open as the rest of the entire website.

I don't personally know Anthony's criteria for access, but I can say that it took a while before I was allowed in. I don't know if he bases it on the amount of time a member is here, the frequency of posts, the quality of posts, whether or not you have a bad attitude, or what.

What I can tell you is that I respect the privacy of those who post in the Private section because it's about stuff that should not be read by everyone. Think of it as the difference between speaking to a crowd on a stage to thousands of people about your most painful and private memories, versus telling them quietly to a close friend whom you have known longer and trust not to reveal your secrets. Can you understand?

It is not meant to be an elitist, special society with a secret handshake. Think of it more like this: you have had close friends with whom you share secrets and private information, and you also have friends you shoot the shit with. They are all friends, but you feel closer to some than others.

I sincerely hope that you do not feel insulted. I am certain that Anthony's just observing all of us, and seeing how we interact, and he does not want to make the mistake of allowing someone to join the Private section before they...and we...are ready.

What do you think?