Does the JMDL seem to have taken on a different flavor lately? Does it seem to have lost some of its sense of community?
Hi. I'd like to add just a few thoughts to this discussion, as one who has been somewhat inactive of late, but by no means indifferent to the JMDL. Bear in mind that I believe any observations I could make would only be a *static* appraisal of a phenomenon that is in a *constant state of flux*. I think the mere posing of the question itself results in a degree of list metamorphosis, in terms of content, compared to a few days ago. Moreover, what is the basis for comparison...is the list "different" from what? From the JMDL of 1988, when Joni, Van and Zimmerman were on that sweet mini-tour? Or from the JMDL of 1987 when at one point the scuttlebutt was Julie Z's inaugural Jonifest? I mean, how does one hold current list members and their posts to some undefinable standard presumably attained by lists gone by...a completely different group of people in utterly different times. And before I lament that this post or that wasn't "fun" or "enjoyable" to read when reading the jmdl, I try to consider how fulfilling and cathartic it can be to simply express oneself, eloquent or not, in a forum in which one feels comfortable. The mere *opportunity* to be heard by 800 of your peers is a rare gift...whether misunderstood immediately deleted by the majority, or not. I appreciate the privilege and have availed myself of it many times. Hell, I'm doing it right now. Today's manifestation of the JMDL is as wonderful as any I've been blessed to be a part of over my long strange trip here. I want to get to know you all. Everyone seems to sincerely love Joni and no one comes off as a complete tool in their posts. Let's give credit where credit's due. :-) I have nothing but respect for those who post their political views in one form or another and shudder to think of the inherent bias of any moderation of same in this forum. I don't always "like" the viewpoints, but I always appreciate the candor. For the most part, it seems to me that jmdlers are smarter than the average bear and so many are incredibly talented musically...artistically. So many of you are truly beautiful people who have been so very kind to me. Nothing compares to the dynamic of the people on this list, just as no one compares to the artist who has brought us together from all corners of the globe. For best results from the JMDL, I strongly urge everyone to get outside the box...come to Jonifest west or east this year. You'll look at this list completely differently hence. You can't help but feel the love. And it makes for many interesting Joni-related things to discuss here on the list. For me the jmdl remains very much a community...in the very best sense of the word. My heart believes that, as wonderful as this list has been for me over the years, the best is yet to come. -Julius NP: Big Yellow Taxi -"The Dawntreader"
