Diversity

[tripleblessed]

I am one who attempts to learn from each and all. In discussions I am often reminded of a comment made, I believe, by the
esteemed Lazarus Long; loosely remembered as that one learns more from those we disagree with than those with whom we agree.
We may enjoy more the company of those of similar mind. Or not. To the point. I have muchly enjoyed the diversity of opinions
here, especially in the past before the curbing of free discussion. @piperdbh , I would want you to know that I have enjoyed
your participation here and was concerned by your last post, as many enjoyable folk seem to post less these days. Please
let yourself continue.

I'd like to say I am happy for you that you had the honor of piping for a giant. When giants are about, some are awed by their
stature, others fearful, some jealous. When they stir, some get stepped on; should they fall, many may be crushed. Any one
of us does not define them, and are rightly accorded our feelings in whatever direction. My opinion of giants does not seem to
have much relevance to them, so I keep them close. Even should I disagree, it would not change who they are. It is valuable
to honor all.

When any of us leaves, it behooves us to honor their effort. Their worth or shortcomings is beyond my pay grade. I am grateful
you were available, and that you let us know. It is good that the family felt supported.

If any feel these thoughts inappropriate, feel free to say so. Or ignore. Or ask the thread be closed. Civility is always appropriate.

[FossilHunter]

I for one am disappointed that a thread that seemed to me to be perfectly within the rules as it didn’t discuss any of the forbidden topics and was actually relevant to the forum as it involved piping was derailed by a post that explicitly violated forum rules. And after all that, it was the OP that was expected to abandon his thread.

I hope we haven’t run off a member of long standing with this. It certainly gives me cause for concern going foreward.

[Tarheel]

I posted (in the afore mentioned thread) my compliment on piping to honor a great man's passing. I also made myself available for discussion of any thoughts, words or ideas that contradicted the OP's intended opinion. I find a wonderful mix of ideas from all the XMark members. I learn about my own shortcomings as well as reasons to strengthen convictions. I don't get that from the locals in my area. It takes a world of different ages, backgrounds and life choices for me to grow.

I hope that we haven't lost anyone because of a differing point of view from another.

One kilt can be worn by ten different people. Ten presentations will be made and perceived by others as unique. Yet that one kilt will remain the same fabric, style and self identity (tartan or not).

[Father Bill]

I for one am disappointed that a thread that seemed to me to be perfectly within the rules as it didn’t discuss any of the forbidden topics and was actually relevant to the forum as it involved piping was derailed by a post that explicitly violated forum rules. And after all that, it was the OP that was expected to abandon his thread.

I hope we haven’t run off a member of long standing with this. It certainly gives me cause for concern going foreward.

The policy of the forum is that the OP owns and controls his/her thread. That being the case, when an OP asks that a thread be closed, we always comply.

[Jack Daw]

I'd prefer to leave all arguments not pertaining to kilts out of here. I would prefer to attack Shaun Maxwell...often.

[Father Bill]

I'd prefer to leave all arguments not pertaining to kilts out of here. I would prefer to attack Shaun Maxwell...often.

You say that you'd prefer to leave all arguments not pertaining to kilts out but you say that you would prefer to attack a member of the forum often. I'm concerned about that kind of comment. It doesn't sound appropriate to the peaceful nature of our forum. Would you care to adjust that?

[FossilHunter]

The policy of the forum is that the OP owns and controls his/her thread. That being the case, when an OP asks that a thread be closed, we always comply.

True. However I felt that Liam’s post (made as a moderator) probably didn’t sound fair to the creator of that thread. There was only one inflammatory comment made in the thread in question and it wasn’t piperdbh’s.

[Father Bill]

True. However I felt that Liam’s post (made as a moderator) probably didn’t sound fair to the creator of that thread. There was only one inflammatory comment made in the thread in question and it wasn’t piperdbh’s.

I am not prepared to discuss the propriety of any of the posts. I often prefer some posts to others. The fact is that the OP requested closure and I complied.

[FossilHunter]

I am not prepared to discuss the propriety of any of the posts. I often prefer some posts to others. The fact is that the OP requested closure and I complied.

I understand and I appreciate your comments and responses here.

[Father Bill]

I understand and I appreciate your comments and responses here.

Thank you.

As Moderators, we try very hard to follow the formulas and procedures laid out in our Forum Rules, Philosophies, FAQs etc. As in any other set of formulas, they are imperfect, but we do our very best to do so in an impartial, perhaps even mechanical manner in order to be fair and just to all members and maintain the kind and collegial nature of the Forum.

Again, thank you for your understanding. This is the only way we can try and do our best.