Hard as I fight it, the evidence is there: yup, I'm an asshole sometimes. It's impossible not to be, really, unless you're the perfect Buddhist from the Tilted Philosophy thread
But the key, at least for me, is to recognize my "asshole-ness" and try to find its source and overcome it. I have to realize that's not a goal for everyone, though. However, if some people are content with their "asshole-ness" they also have to be willing to deal with its consequences. Again, the Philosphy thread has a good example - a lot of people have been discussing morality in terms of one's actions effects on the larger group. We can't just be the way we want to be without impunity because we are social creatures, and our words and deeds have consequences for other people.
Anyhow, I realize this has just gotten WAY esoteric. Sorry.
So here's my promise and my request: I promise to stay and to try to make this place as lively and respectful a place as we all want it to be. And I ask that if I'm ever out of line, please let me know. If it hurts my feelings, too bad. I'll get over it. This place is such a great exercise in social engineering, full of really awesome people who want it to succeed, how could I think of leaving?