Re[2]: [at-l] AT-L And The AT

[bullard@northnet.org (James Bullard)]

At 12:21 PM 9/4/01 -0400, Bob Cummings wrote:
>"...Some folks want to hear about there friend weekend hike, or maybe trail
>reports and about gear, that's cool, but it doesn't make the list friendly.
>It just makes the list about those things..."
>
>Clifford R. Haynes has sent us some very wise advice. We should read it 
>and ponder what he is saying. He should also send us more stories about 
>the Maine woods, even those that are only 20 percent about the AT. That's 
>probably a better percentage than I manage.
>
>Weary

Well, that's what the Bio posts were about.  A chance to get to know the 
folks you're talking to a little better, to better understand where they 
are coming from.  I think that what Kahley is talking about is attitude, 
not subject matter.  It's quite possible to discuss weighty matters on AT-L 
as long as you respect the opinions of the others on the list.

Arguing or bashing other listers for failing to agree isn't 
discussion.  Discussion involves sharing of the facts that we base our 
opinions on.  I didn't see a whole lot of "this is the way I see it and 
here are the reasons why" in what went on.  I did see a lot of passion and 
"this is the right way because I said so and all who disagree with me will 
pay" (oops: that last bit is from an old Steppenwolf song).  Anyway,  when 
other equally strong and passionate personalities read those posts they 
said "oh yeah!" and then the dialog sunk to name calling.

Bottom line: If you want to bring up a weighty matter, do it, but think 
about the attitude or tone of the post before you hit send.  If the weighty 
matter is accompanied by a potshot at one or more of the folks you're 
talking to, it's sure to get lost in the translation.  The insult is all 
that will get read/responded to.  Subject matter by itself is 
neutral.  It's the potshots that aren't friendly.

sAunTerer