1) In general, people seem to hate reading. You could literally type just two sentences, and people will read one and ignore the other. It's baffling...and frightening to think this is the way it goes all over the internet...o_O No wonder it's such a jungle...
2) Not everyone is used to, or even comfortable with being disagreed with. I didn't know that was a thing before I got here...I mean, I knew, but I didn't think it was something I'd ever come across. And as someone who personally thrives on debate, I still don't know how to handle it...
3) Expertise is everywhere! People here have so many different areas of knowledge; it's really crazy. It's almost annoying, actually...you don't get many chances to just wonder about things and discuss them from a learner's perspective, 'cause before you know it someone comes along to tell you exactly what to do... ^^;
4) The creative process is tough. Really tough. I've learned that people struggle with things I wasn't even aware were problems before...and I'm glad I have, so I can be more understanding in the future.
5) When I first got here, I remember people saying the forumers were all so helpful, and every time you ask a question you get a response in, like, minutes...maybe it's just me, but in my experience, that isn't true. Either people are climbing all over each other to answer your question, or it's mostly radio silence. Doesn't matter what the question is; even if you KNOW there are people here who could help you. It's chance either way. =/ I have no explanation for this.
6) I've gotten too used to assuming that everyone I meet on the internet is either a teenager or a young, single adult. It spooks me to think that isn't the case...I don't know why, but it does. And I really need to adjust...