@WillowRex - in meta, votes are typically for agreement or disagreement, especially on discussion posts. It doesn't mean your question is bad.

@SmokeDetector tp

thanks, it seems punitive but is not meant to be. This forum is different from any other community. It takes getting used to it, but I am starting to understand. I do appreciate all the help the community has given by explaining things. That is why I am still here enjoying the site very much.

@WillowRex Votes on meta do not affect your reputation; your meta reputation is the same as your reputation on the main site (synchronized hourly), though you earn separate badges.

so it isn't punitive :-)

thanks, I am starting to get it!