I have joined in the political debates from time to time, but less so recently, I have come to the conclusion that certain topics go on ad infinitum. It's quite understandable that contributors to GN being of a mature age and varying experiences will hold deeply held convictions that shape their political views. There are a few posters however who I regard as non partisan and less entrenched and don't necessarily trot out the predicatable.
I quite enjoy the exchange of information threads everything from "what I'm reading now" films, tv, genealogy, shopping, travel etc. etc. Certain "Health" topics are of interest to me such as Thyroid and Menopause. I don't contribute very often to the "Good Morning" day of the week thread but enjoy reading the various posts, particulary as to the weather which can be quite diverse in our fairly small country. Often saddened by the estrangement situations and realise how difficult life can be for some on GN. Most days I access GN to read rather than post, but I think it's fair to say that I have gained a bit of knowledge on many subjects and am glad whoever it was decided that there should be an offshoot of Mumsnet, where the language is certainly more colourful and the exchanges at times savage, started up a dedicated forum for not only grandparents, but an older demographic. Yes it's part of my on line life