Last week I posted a response, to remarks made in a thread, that was glaringly outside the posting guidelines.  It was a post made in haste, a response to words that I took to mean perhaps much more than intended.  It was reactionary; and as suggested here many times in the past, when we react and hastily type a counter to a perceived wrong, it is often best to pause and walk away from the keyboard before hitting the post button.  Last week I failed to walk away.  Within the greater context of other events in my life, I reacted hastily and hit post instead of letting the emotional reactions to words read on a computer screen pass and waiting to more calmly and objectively address the issue at hand.
 
Particlarly egregious in that post was the fact that I essentially 'called out' two fellow members of the club, including one long-time member whom I consider to be one of the more thoughtful and caring of our fellow members.  It was hurtful and wrong of me to do so; and it is an example of how we hurt ourselves and those whom we care about when we speak without fully thinking of the results of our actions.
 
As the ripples on a pond move out from the center where the stone first enters the water, our actions have consequences far beyond their initial movement.  When our actions are positive, their energy spreads positively through those on whom they first effect.  When our actions are negative, their energy spreads negatively through those on whom they first effect.
 
My apologies to all who were hurt, angered, and rightfully disappointed.

It takes a big man to admit a transgression and an even bigger one to acknowledge that his or her actions may have had a negative imnpact on others. On the other hand, the thoughtful discussions you have facilitated with your adept ability to see the positive in everyone drawf the potential impact of this incident. I wish that ALL those representing us in the political arena had your wisdom and humble nature.

Dave,  
           I was very pleased to meet you at the  Northern California Alembic Gathering  not only because of your posts and exemplary nature as a moderator here but because  what appears as a true interest of humanity and enlightenment  on your part. As far as I can see you still reign mighty  high as a true blue purveyor of guidance ; with a noble heart and mind.

dave..we are all human, mistakes are made even though how careful we are in life and love.
That is why there are erasers on the end of pencils.
I don't think anyone on here would be embittered towards you at all.
Stay cool, play bass..

Dave,
I think you're too hard on yourself. What you posted didn't seem nearly as inflammatory as some of the responses to it. As usual, you've handled these responses with a call for understanding and reflection, rather than harsh words. I know it's this sort of response that makes you such valued moderator.

Dave,
 
Initially I did not react to your post.  People are entitled to their emotions and feelings.  When I read the initial uproar over it, I reread your words.  Being that I have conversed through the forum and e-mails with you, I was not offended at the comments, even though I could understand why others would be (as a fiscal conservative it is hard for me to to think any administration would be totally egalitarian).  Strong words on your part, perhaps.  Were they Jimmy Hoffa Jr. strong?  I don't think so.  The key is to get to know someone, and keep in mind we all have life pressures to deal with that may influence what and how we say things.  This club forum is a fanasy world for me.  Otherwise I have to meet the expectations of my clients and teenage son, and those that have one of those can sense some road rage.  Gibson will survive, and I think there may be some selective enforcement by the current administation.  I would always give you the benefit of doubt, and not becasue of that cool 70's picture you were brave enough to psot.  Keep in mind, we are probably at different political beliefs.  Still, keep up your most valuable work as a club moderator.

Dave, I liked your post. Respect, brother.

I have no idea what the hoopla is about, but having been a moderator at TBL myself and having butted heads with moderators in other online venues, I want to thank Dave for being completely open to the humanity of everyone here, including himself. We might have rough spots, but we're in great hands!

Dave, I wish to point out that I -- like Wolf -- experienced the pleasure of meeting you at the last Nor Cal Alembic Gathering and you are as cool and mellow face-to-face as you are electronically in this forum. And you specifically chose to play  MY bass at the gathering. Quite an honor.
 
Maybe everyone in society at large needs to back up a little and acknowledge the things that make all of us much more alike than we are different. Then let's go from there.

Dave has kept his cool when many of us would have exploded.
 
Vann-Di

Jeez Dave, you are like a Saint, especially compared to me for instance. Keep up the good work!