Zardoz, Downunder Kilt,

I think that we're all a bit disappointed right now. It's easy to let things irritate us at times like this.

It's true that our little blue blimp DIDN'T get round the whole world (it didn't even get to all areas of the US). I think it probably would have, if it hadn't dropped anchor permanently.

Quote Originally Posted by JSFMACLJR View Post
With posts like some of these , I can see why Panache decided to retire the Saltire. See how divisive things become?
People get mad, even impolite. It doesn't mean they're not united. It's just that right now we're united in disappointment I don't know Jamie's full reasoning for his actions, but it's obviously not been an easy decision for him. I doubt a little squabbling amongst the rabble is the cause.

Quote Originally Posted by English Bloke View Post
Just let it go folks, no point in falling out over it.

For reasons best known to himself, Jamie has decided to retire the saltire before it has had a chance to complete the trip it was supposed to do. That's his prerogative it would seem. It was fun while it lasted for those who got to play but I don't think it was prevented or excluded from getting to Australia, Asia or Africa, it just ran out of time.

I also think, the symbol of unity it carried, sadly retires with it so it doesn't really matter anymore.

I still think it was a fantastic idea but I don't think we should have a replacement for the saltire either. It just makes for disappointment when an individual decides to take their ball home and ends all the fun for everyone else. In fact, I can feel the tension in the air right now...
John,
I agree with everything you said, apart from the last bit (unity, and replacing the Saltire). The problem exists that any replacement would have to be something NEW, not a pale, synthetic substitute.

The Saltire was born from Jamie's love of the forum and stories. I think we CAN develop a new 'traveler', but the process should be organic, not an "OK, so whadda we use in place of the blimp" type reaction.

On a more general note:
As far as X-Marks not being 'the same' as it used to be... nothing is. People come, go, change. New members add a new spice, the departure of others changes the flavor as well. The focus may change (lots of questions have already been answered and stickied). It's not BAD, it's life.

My thoughts on X-Marks and my time so far on the forum were recently posted HERE.

Should any of you show up 'round my deep frozen area of the world, the first round on me.

ith: