Dear PS members, First of all, wish you all a very happy and peaceful 2004. Second of all, I have something to say that's probably not very pleasant to read but I just have to get it off my chest as it has been bothering me quite a bit. I hate to start the new year on a discordant note but thought if it's taken in the right sense and spirit, you'll agree that it's a positive change. Ok - I'll come to the point: I have noticed of late more and more mentions to "heavy-weights" and "important players", etc etc. While this is good in the sense that we give credit where it's due, and I'll be the first one to admit that a lot of us know very little about history and are fascinated and learning from these people, we should also make sure that we do not discourage others from contributing. Please don't misunderstand what I'm saying. I think we have some great researchers here and I have no problems referring to them as such. But when we say (appr. Example) "Mr. So and So who's an important player/heavyweight is not contributing - please do so", I think some of us lightweights might feel a little intimidated to write. (apparently not me :-) - that has never stopped me from writing. It is human nature to feel that way. I love this group and the way it operates. Let's keep it democratic and free for all, of course minding our language and making sure we don't hurt any group/individual's feelings. While we're on that, I also noticed a few ill-chosen words written in a few emails with strong sentiments by one of our new members. I waited for the moderator to speak up but since he/they didn't, I am doing so. We should mind our language and the choice of words when speaking in a forum like this. That's all folks! I realize I am not the moderator and will probably not get any response from anyone for this, but had to speak up. Always the trouble-maker, Latha
We are in agreement. Some of us know each other more personally. Certain interesting informations are shared through private mails. When we think such informations can also be shared among all members, we kindle such persons to put such inputs - which we call among ourselves "interesting materials" - in PS group mail. The so-called boxing words / cricket words were meant in that direction only. No displeasure meant anyhow. Certain no-balls might have been bowled. By speaking out, we are adjusting ourselves to be more cautious.
I apologise if I had caused some concern in addressing some members are heavy weights it was just on a light note.If you were to class members that way even I will be a lightweight(but physically and in terms of contribution quality)
I enjoy and welcome some significant archeological evidenced based facts as well as some light mails in just the same way.
as far the moderation.If you think anyone is out of line feel free to do so.Infact we have been in situations like that before when members have been told.
I think we all are grown ups and know the value of posting messages in the public arena...and make sure that it is nice and appropriate.I must confess there are a few messages from the last few weeks which I havenot read yet been working hard.
if you go back to the massage archives you will not find most inappropriate mails as they are deleted periodically.
I am once again sorry If I have hurt anyones sentiments.