I consider myself someone who not only has a lot of knowledge to offer, but also enjoys giving it. But, I have my limits on where I choose to give. With three children (all play sports), a husband, a job and a magazine, my time is very valuable. So I certainly do not want to waste it.
To find the time to read through posts and hold long term conversations can be another job within itself. I am on so many lists, that I have to try and figure out where I can (or want) to contribute.
That place used to be RR-folk, but then it got hostile. It was riddled with know-it-alls and those whom had nothing better to do in their lives then cause trouble or fight with everyone. It has gotten better, but does not offer the wonderful things found here. I am still on that list, but not very active.
Then, there is the RRCUS members list, which I am very active on. To me, the club is very important and takes priority over all other lists. It has only been over the past six months that the members list has become very active and vocal. And while there are some heated and sometimes nasty exchanges, I can see past that for the greater good...which to me, is the breed club. For this reason, I will contribute more there than anywhere else.
This forumn was started to allow those of us who wanted to contribute, educate and talk without worries of flame wars, pissing contests or hostile encounters. But, like anything in life, when something grows, changes take place. That is what has happened and is happening here. I am not sure if that is good or bad. Only time will tell.
There are several reasons why I have chosen to go into lurking status here over the past few months. I was seriously considering dropping this list because it started becoming like all the others. Too much negativity for me...I like to surround myself with positive forces. And it has nothing to do with me not getting my way or not liking someone. Just me not wishing to expend energy on a list that I was loosing faith in.
Another reason was because of the TOS allowing the administrators to edit my post, yet making me responsible for what I say. This, to me, is completely and 100% unacceptable. If I offend someone, ask me to edit my own post or remove it. But to automatically assume it is o.k. to edit my writing without myapproval, is a deal breaker for me. And I really do not understand why it is not changed back to the way it was. Or...do not make me responsible for what has been edited. Easy solution if you ask me. I am hoping this will change soon.
And another reason is that l personally do NOT like corresponding with people who choose not to give their name. I just don't get it. We are all adults, many in different parts of the world. What is the big damn deal to give your name and even how long you have been in the breed? If this list is to be used for educational purposes, don't you want to know who is educating you? Don't you want to know that the person who is telling you right or wrong, should have atleast some experience in the breed? Especially when you start talking about genetics and conformation. Do you really want to take breeding and show advise from a pet owner of less than one year? Or from someone whose real agenda is getting rid of all breeders. In either instance, we have no way of knowing this because they join under an alias or pretend to be some newbie just trying to get advice.
As far as hidden account of administrators, I don't think it really bothers me. But, I don't think that one should have several alias. We should only be allowed one.
So for me, its not just about one thing, but many. And most certainly its about my time and where I think it is best served.
Theresa : )
