[pct-l] anger vs discussion

[kcristler]

a little preachy, Amanda, but not TOO preachy. it was you and your opinion, 
that's all. Your views are appreciated as much as all the others. Reading 
threads like these, one realizes the great diversity of opinions and views 
held by hikers. From totally over the top,semi-whacked-out, to timid, please 
don't disagree with each other type of people. That is why this list is 
interesting. Some people are complaing that we should stick to hiking only 
issues, religiously. Well, this list amazes me whenever someone asks for 
hiking advice, be it equipment, route, timing, travel or whatever. There is 
instantaneous outpouring of advice from all the experienced hikers. Most 
inquirers end up sending a post that reads "thank you so much, i never 
dreamed i'd get this much great advice". In the meantime, when no one is 
seeking advice, we gravitate to more contentious areas of the pct 
experience. If a thread irks someone, say your piece, or just don't read the 
thread, but why say to the others "stop, this thread irks me". As many of us 
know :)  we have great moderaters to take care of that . Just my opinion of 
what i consider a great and liberal list.
               kerry









----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Amanda L Silvestri" <aslive at sbcglobal.net>
To: <pct-l at backcountry.net>
Sent: Friday, May 22, 2009 10:57 PM
Subject: [pct-l] anger vs discussion


Yes, sometimes we go off on tangents here on the list. That is not 
necessarily a bad thing as long as we manage to have a civilized discussion. 
The exchange of ideas is healthy. Exposure to different points of view can 
allow us to see things from an angle we had not considered before. We 
certainly don't have to agree with everything that is said. If we did then 
there would be no point in having the discussion. A little humor now and 
then can also help to lighten things up a bit, as long as it is not hurtful 
or mean spirited.

In my humble opinion, we would do well to guard against becoming emotionally 
invested in the outcome of these discussions. This is not a contest, race or 
battle between ideologies. It is the exchange of information and experience 
and yes, sometimes opinion. There is no need for winners and losers or to 
get in the last word. Just as the tent, sleeping bag, or cooking system that 
may work best for one person, won't quite cut it for another, so it is with 
opinions, beliefs and attitudes. One size does not fit all.

I thank everyone for sharing what they know, have experienced, seen, read or 
heard. I thank you for honoring me with you opinion and beliefs. I only ask 
that we respect each other enough to allow for the differences. I encourage 
a polite exchange where no one needs feel attacked or belittled and everyone 
feels safe and welcome.

I'm sorry. Too preachy?

Shepherd
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