For those on this board who do not like this thread, my apologies for your uncomfortableness. However, I do NOT apologize for bringing it to the Community Room. I believe it is the perfect place for the community to "COME TOGETHER" and deal with this issue.

However, I care about this community... and believe we have to resolve some of the basic issues of this community. It is because I care about this community that I brought the subject up here rather than the "hidden" place it was being discussed.

Part of being in a community means being accountable for your actions in that community. Too quickly we move to "make nice" or say "We should not have these discussions" without addressing the concern that caused the rift.

A rift HAS been created on this board... and I did not create it. I will say, however, that I am not willing to let it continue without asking the community to weigh in. Will this board survive if we do not address the rift? Of course! Will the community be as enriched as it could? I believe not!

I find it interesting that the person who is at the center of all this can actually say that "Many want to see FT to be a far more peaceful place in 2001, myself included". I must be reading the wrong postings. Not sure I have seen that "Peaceful Place" exhibited and nurtured by that person.

I also will not be held hostage to my opinions and views by someone who is threatening and disrespectful. I also accept that I sometimes react quickly to what I see... and could probably learn from Punki's ability to count to three before reacting... and counting again! (Doubt I have the will to do that!!!)

Again, my apologies for any innocent feelings I have hurt. That was not intended.

If the views of this community OR Randy believe I have stepped out-of-bounds, I will accept that and leave the board willingly and never post again. (I cannot promise not to lurk as I still value the traveling knowledge this board provides!) In addition, I pledge that you never have to worry about my posting under false aliases.

Respectfully,


William
[email protected]