I thought you were going to let me have the last word. ;) > someone who thinks "my argument doesn't have any merit" (and who doesn't think that's insulting) Y

I thought you were going to let me have the last word. ;) > someone who thinks "my argument doesn't have any merit" (and who doesn't think that's insulting) You forgot the yet. No, it's not nitpicking. Without it, it would be a mere judgmental sentence and it would make sense if you felt dismissed. With it, it is a sign that I am trying to reach for a point of agreement or an understanding. You are claiming I am the one "biting and nitpicking on everything", but you also could've given a much more charitable interpretation to this, much like you could have done it for the last 6-7 exchanges we had. And sorry, but I really don't see what is "insulting" about it. Well, at least I don't see how this is insulting if we are to have a rational conversation. This would be insulting only for those who'd be tying their self-image to any of the things being discussed. > Honestly, hand on your heart, do you believe your responses were made in the best possible tone and were the best way to conduct an honest conversation? Yes...? Maybe I am relying too much on the Socratic method, but my questions were mostly to dig in for Truth, not to grieve you. But given the way that old man died, perhaps I should try a different path to not end on the same way as he did.