The View From Here

**Big Mikey** · 14th March 10, 10:43 PM

I have thought long and hard before attempting to put in words my feelings regarding recent past events. The following is a result of much contemplation.

There has been a great outcry as to changes that have been taking place on our forum.

The overall look of the forum has been changed to indicate the vision of a new owner. Members have been asked to contribute their opinions because it is important that they feel some ownership. The sheer size of the forum and the amount of work needed to implement changes means that it will take time. Much like any website, a forum is a living thing, growing, changing and adapting to user needs as time passes.

The removal of titles and ranks is part of the change. It has been explained that titles may contribute to an appearance of segregation between members. Whether or not this is true, could be debated for days on end. The fact is, the owner believes it and so has tried to ensure that all who come here will feel welcome.

I was elated when I first learned that I had been awarded the title of
"Kilted Juggernaut". Without the title I'm still Big Mikey, sometime joker and punster and a member who enjoys this forum. It will not affect what, how or when I'll post.

Some feelings have been hurt due to the evolution of the forum. Unlike some material things, feelings can be mended. Though it may take a supreme effort and considerable time, I sincerely hope this comes to pass.

I remember when the change in ownership was announced, there was a lot of optimism expressed. Hank himself admitted that he had not been able to give XMarks the attention it deserved. Steve has been putting in more time on the forum than his business in order to deliver a product that everyone can be proud of.

On our forum we consider ourselves family. Family members do have differences in opinion, they have squabbles, their feelings get hurt and they forgive because they are family.

Finally, this is JUST an online forum. It exists for our pleasure, amusement and education. No matter what happens here, be it good, bad or indifferent, it should not be the cause of lost friendships.

The preceding is the opinion of one, fat, old man. Take it as you will.

**gordontaos** · 14th March 10, 11:09 PM

I'm just a newby, but, Here Here!!! Well said.

**jdriskill3** · 15th March 10, 05:03 AM

Well said Steve Ashton.

**Tony** · 15th March 10, 07:02 AM

A big hand for a big Mikey.

**pdcorlis** · 15th March 10, 07:14 AM

Thanks Big Mikey - well said indeed.

**longhuntr74** · 15th March 10, 07:32 AM

...on another slightly related topic...

What's up with the increased number of disagreements on here lately? Am I imagining it or has there been an increased number of friends with "less than friendly debate". I may be off base.

**cavscout** · 15th March 10, 09:08 AM

Agreed Mike

Regardless of change, XMTS is still the best kilt forum in the world. As kilts have spread deeper into other venues, like the hiking community, this is the forum that they come to for information. As long as we keep our eye on the ball by providing a positive environment for helpful information, that will continue. Change is going to happen whether anyone wants it or not, acting in good faith together for the betterment of XMTS is the only way to ensure that this continues to be the best forum on the net.