(guilty of skimming
thread, wanted to add my two cents anyways)
First off, this isn't to say what the restaurant did was right. They handled the situation poorly but it is a good lesson for all of us in the future. I agree with you that what they did was wrong by immediately kicking you out and not letting you explain.
I actually always take the 'safe' stance when out in public. I have been at many bars and stepped outside with my smoking friends when they take their break. I have even had smokers question me "well if its not smoke why don't you just do it inside?"
Really the truth is that I want the general public to have a good view of
vaping. I don't want them in any way to think I am interfering with their rights or even lifestyle. I constantly get compliments 'wow that smells great' even the GF says she doesn't want to but she can't help but enjoy the smell.
Anyways, the point is if it ever comes up for a vote or support I want the backing of our peers. I don't want them to view it as another habit where they will say "those vapers think they can do anything" - EVEN if it isn't harming them in any way. I feel that if we are courteous to others they may be more understanding and even go to bat for us when our time comes.