I was having an email conversation chat with one of the core members here (who I respect highly) a few days ago. We were discussing an issue involving another regular member in the group. I had a certain opinion about this person which changed drastically when I was told his background (where he was coming from...what he did in his life and what he experienced to form who he is today). I still have the same opinion, but, now......I'm more understanding, more tolerant, less judgmental, and less sensitive to our interaction. It was quite a lesson for me. Learning to look beyond the surface!

I've thought about this many times over the years. How so many people play their cards close to their chest when it comes to their personal lives. And how different you would (and could) talk to them once you know their background. How they got to be who they are today!

In this group (or any group you're in), I think it would go a long way if we understood what each one of us is about. Example. I’m sure Steve doesn’t mind me using him as a positive example. I never understand Steve’s role as a pianist. It’s only through his many posts that I learned he plays professionally. Gary, thankfully, is an open book. When he says (or plays) something, you understand it better because you “understand” what he did with his life. (and I admire him for the diverse life he chose to lead).

In short, you learn about people in bits and pieces.. Why not learn about people in one go, again, so you understand them better when they post something.

Leading up to......I think Nigel might consider a member’s section that anyone who wants to can tell their life story. I, myself, would really like to read the background of many of you as I find you all interesting people in many different ways. At the very least, you could maybe just do a regular post telling about yourself.

This all stems from that email conversation I mentioned I had a few days ago. Been thinking about it for a while now.

Any of you would like to tell your own life story, knowing we'll probably understand your posts better if we knew how you got to be who you are today?