I think it would be helpful to remember that we don't always know the other
person's "tone of voice" through email. Something that is intended to be
"tongue-in-cheek" or some other form of humor can often be taken literally
when only the written word is used. Facial expressions and tone of voice
contribute to our understanding of each other. We come from many countries
and many different backgrounds. Different people are going to read things
differently especially if they are mentally having to translate English
into their native language while they read. Maybe emoticons could be used
when humor is intended but might not be interpreted.
JMHO! :)
--
Betty Ann
"In a cat's eyes, all things belong to cats." English Proverb