I quit reading the forum a while back for the same reasons. I came back recently and thought it appeared to be different. I haven't seen as much negativity as I once did. Maybe those people are gone, perhaps they are busy or maybe they have me blocked...I really don't know. I just know that I try really hard to be helpful when I can and avoid controversy if possible. You don't have to agree with someone but arguing with someone over something they are passionate about doesn't solve anything and is certainly not helpful.
I have learned a whole lot from other RVers on this forum and I enjoy reading &/or participating in some of the post of interest. I think sometimes it is the way a post is worded that comes off harsh and not necessarily the way it was intended. Same with everyday text messages. Then again, some people are just down right mean :). Try to take it all with a grain of salt. Ignore what could be offensive and soak in the helpful information. That's what I try to do. Many people on this forum are extremely helpful.