Fran, you see it as childish bickering. I see it as it presents it�s self, arrogant and egotistical. In Mikes own words, quote: It just seems a pity that practically every discussion we have has a habit of turning into nasty personal remarks�. Why I ask? Why? In my point of view not only arrogance and egotism lies at the root but other traits such as negativism, jealousy and the like. This is not the first incident of this nature to occur. This one has to do with personalities. Others have been due to defaming our choice of instrument that we prefer to play. So, how should this be handled? Fran, you say you look forward to this forum on a daily bases and have great respect for the members. I also do, except for a rare few of the members. Just as one germ infiltrating a group of people gathered together can cause much discomfort and stress so can one of these negative attitudes. left unchecked, can do the same for this forum. Fran you prefer to live with this condition and try to understand the germ and let it live and do it�s thing. I boil this down to two courses of action, not passivity. The first is to resist and try to change the situation, the cause of discomfort and stress. The other and least preferable course of action I would pursue if it would not change, would be to leave this aggravation and look for new horizons.

Now Gunner, you know I greatly appreciate your contributions to the good of us all. I think, however, that there might be a small flaw in your last statement, quote: �One of the really
great/good things here at the forums are that �we� do all as we can to help each other�. The only word/thought I would change is: �we�. Kind of keep in mind. One bad apple in a bushel can cause problems with the whole. Gunner, you are right, Mike might still get help if he needs it but as Johnnie said, �being arrogant and egoistic nobody really wants to help him anymore. I would like to stress the word �wants�. I think that is the sad part of the whole thing and as the old saying goes: You made your own bed so now you must sleep in it�. Sad but true.

Disclaimer - This is only the view of the author and in no way reflects the opinion of the management, it�s employees or subscribers. Feel free to chastise the author in any way you see fit. Ruthie has done it freely over the last many years so have a go.

Doug