I see it more of finding someone who has experience on the site and has been a good support.

I ignore it.. If you’re not impressed by such stuff, don’t worry about those who are. Don’t think I’ve ever noticed anyone criticized because of their ..low post ranking… But as little as I make of it, the eventual ‘authority’ given after apparently proving ourselves does appear to help administer things to a degree, a privilege I take seriously.

...I haven’t even posted a photo or given a bio.. and seem to have taken some crap for that ..but that’s the kind of ‘easy pickins personal stuff’ I’d be concerned with far before the points

I think you may be over-estimating how the levels are perceived by members. I don't think anyone is participating simply to increase their level. However, the vast majority of members have been oppressed in some way by a religious society, and are looking for some place they can be themselves without the criticism they face "in real life".

This community of non-believers is looked at by some religious as a prime place to try and convert us - even if it means initiating faux interest in a romantic relationship, which is rather mean. That's who we mean by trolls. So the levels are our little security system. Can an infiltrator / troll still level up enough to toy with people? Sure. But this way they have to keep up their charade long enough for the community to find out their intentions.

I think, though, that a lot of us - even those open to seeking relationships - have found an amazing community here, unlike others we've tried, and we really enjoy chatting to one another unencumbered.

So, please: forget about levels, and just talk to us!

Why are you an untouchable ??

If someone becomes high level by trolling they are missing the point. I think the points are just an idea of how much members are participating. You can go to anyone’s profile and probably find out if they are abusing the system, they can’t hide. As long as people are genuinely trying to spark interest, or just sharing their opinions or thoughts respectfully, then the points are just the byproduct of actually trying to be a part of the community.

You can leap up in levels simply by posting ( the fastest way is new topics). It is just a way to encourage participation! I wish I could use the equivalent on my seniors social club membership!

I think it's really just a way of filtering out the troublemakers. It seems to work pretty well so I just ignore it.

Eveyone is equal. Depends on you. What is your goal? No advantages. Just takes time.