From: Jonathan Davis (jonathan@limbicnutrition.com)
Date: Tue Sep 30 2003 - 04:16:04 MDT
Dear Fellows,
I have noticed that we seem to be somewhat selectively applying our
Virian virtues. I am as guilty of this as anyone. So what follows is
from the perspective of notorious sinner, not an auto-hagified(?) saint:
We espouse reason, yet I notice we are prone both appeal and succumb to
the lure of authority, prejudice and personal attack. We need to learn
to communicate better*. Some topics might be suited to a debating format
(limited size responses) or perhaps adjudication. Personal attacks can
be funny hence fun, and can deliver some truths, but we need to make
sure that they are reserved for arenas where your opponent agrees to
allow them (i.e. Only punch people in the ring). Forceful opinions and
powerful hatreds ("loathing") ought to be tempered, or if one must vent,
remember to be empathetic, rational and macroscopic. Hatreds and other
strong emotions tend to abate in the company of empathy, reason and
vision. Don't just quote them, use them.
We espouse Vision, yet sometimes we are overly focused on ourselves
(navel gazing) and the trivia of the day. Many of us will regret the
wasted hours devoted to splitting hairs and arguing the toss. Lets raise
our game a bit folks.
We tout empathy, yet I frequently see it kept for allies or pitied
enemies (like Islamists). When it comes to real hated groups like
Christians or conservatives, or even fellows who find themselves in
agreement (part or whole) with members of such groups, it is absent.
This is the real UTist threat: The Us of an "enlightened" CoV led by a
self appointed "Agent of Change" versus the them of "benighted"
conservatives, Bush apologists, Christians, Jews and whomever else
disagrees with US**
Finally, let me say that measured against an ideal, anything will be
found wanting. Benchmarked against other communities, the CoV is a truly
magnificent collection of fine fellows. It is a delight to be a part of
this and I am grateful to all of you for your help, instruction and
effort.
Kind regards
Jonathan
* For some good booms on improving communication see:
http://virus.lucifer.com/bbs/index.php?board=57;action=display;threadid=
29376
** By default that is, when dealing with prejudice one's pre-designation
(black, conservative, Jew) damns you before you even open your mouth or
state your case.
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