Starting a private conversation

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Jack K

Puritan Board Doctor
I still need help with this on the "new" board. It used to be, I would often respond to a comment with a private message, which can be the best way to say things in an encouraging manner.

I understand that this is now called "start a conversation." But in a handful of cases recently, I've wanted to start a conversation with a member but I get an error message saying that the recipient is not allowed. Are some members barred from receiving private messages? Or do they opt out?

Is there a way around this? It seems we would want to encourage one-to-one communications rather than forcing all things to be said in open forums with everyone listening in.
 
I've had no problems in starting, or ending conversations once I figured out the new format. I just checked my user preferences and the 'Accept Conversations' box is checked by default. So apparently someone could uncheck that box and opt out. That is a possibility, unless it is a glitch.
 
I see it now. I think it's helpful to friendly-spirited conversation to be able to speak one-on-one, off to the side. But I can see why some might see that option and fear getting a bunch of messages, and so opt out.

For what it's worth, I've never had that problem here. I've always appreciated the occasions when someone took the time to address me personally, away from the eyes of the whole board.
 
I've always appreciated the occasions when someone took the time to address me personally, away from the eyes of the whole board.

Perhaps some folks prefer to have their shortcomings made known publicly. And I know that the threats of physical violence I have received on the board have come in private messages.

It does seem much more difficult to start a private conversation from a thread than it was under the old system. I wonder if the private message volume has dropped off since the change.
 
Perhaps some folks prefer to have their shortcomings made known publicly. And I know that the threats of physical violence I have received on the board have come in private messages.

How could anyone threaten violence to puppy eyes like those? :p
 
It does seem much more difficult to start a private conversation from a thread than it was under the old system. I wonder if the private message volume has dropped off since the change.
It seemed that way to me initially, but I quickly figured it out. This isn't the only forum I'm on using this format and practice makes perfect. Just a matter of clicking on the screen name and 'start conversation' rather than PM.
 
Someone who knew me better than you do?

More importantly - who stole your picture? And how is your wrist coming along?

The joker down the street stole my picture? Dunn know. I was off for two LONG months for my wrist. It's much better but does give me trouble once and awhile.
 
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