When I joined I had absolutely no experience with the internet.I am a fairly new member here. Before I even registered as a user I lurked, read the rules and got a feel for the place. That's what you should do with any forum you are interested in. I never understand the folks who jump in and don't know what they are jumping into.
I jumped in with eyes wide shut and caught a bit of flack. BOR came to my aid and I learned too be a bit less sarcastic.
I am glad I developed a thick skin and I even now avoid the GENPOL fora to some extent.