Stiman: "...I don't understand why everyone here has to be so hard on young people..."
Personally speaking, I can definitely see how it appears that some users (I don't feel young people are targeted and more than any new user in general--it simply comes down to the types of questions being posed and how they're presented) get unnecessarily chastised for asking seemingly innocent questions. However, after reading several, several posts it becomes frustrating when more often than not the OP is looking for validation in an inappropriate venue and from strangers who can't possibly affirm their decision-making in any manner. In addition, it's also frustrating when quite often the same question has been asked and answered many times.
If a user chooses to post on an open forum they are subjecting themselves to varying responses. Some will be positive and encouraging, some not. I think it's a good exercise in general for them (the poster) to learn how they respond to criticisms/ridicule towards their intentions from complete strangers. If they become upset by text alone, how are they going to handle being negatively critiqued in person? (Which, by the way, kudos to the OP for being gracious and accepting of the responses he received thus far, regardless of whether or not he was pleased with their content). Some users are more gentle and patient in their approach, while others are not. Either way, assistance/insight can always be gained, it's just a matter of learning how to accept the way it's offered.
Just my :2c:
