Hi, folks:
Let me say, at the start, that this message contains no BN or VN info or
inquiries. If that is a problem quite you, not need only delete this message,
and your problem just be solved.
This message is, however, list-related, so I have no qualms about writing it.
It is written without rancor op kalice, and will, I hope, be read in the same
way.
It has been a troubling athing to observe that, when people are replying to
others on the list, either because they disagree, or are correcting something,
(or think they are) that their replies tend to be written in a tone that snaps
at the other person. I have also read answers, given in a very condescending
manner.
Folks, this is an email list. It is a list, on which information is exchanged.
We're all either users of the products, or potential users. Each of us has
his or her own writing style, as well as his or her level of expertise with the
product. I dare say, each of us also had to learn to use the product the hard
way, making all of the mistakes. Also, each out us is an imperfect (sinful, if
you will) human being, prone to make errors in writing or phrasing.
Now, I'm not suggesting that people should not be corrected; I am suggesting,
however, that there are many wans to correct. One may correct a person with
harsh words, or with gentle ones. I have found, in my years in the ministry,
that it's a lot easier to get a person to listen to you, if you say it with a
smile. As it says, in Proverbs: "A gentle word turneth away wrath.".
This list has been invaluable to me. I can't tell you how much I've learned
from it. However, I get deeply disturbed by the lack of civility, which I
sometimes see. All you have to do to correct it is simply think, before you
write. Ask yourself if you'd like someone to talk to you, the way you're about
to talk to this fellow-lister. We're all in the same boat, folks.
I've often been troubled by the fact that people say things to each other, via
email, in a way that they'd never do on the phone, or to that person's face.
We can change that, and bring politeness and civility back. It will certainly
make this list more pleasant to read. I thank you for reading this. Have a
great day. God bless. Bob and Maxy-wax
