Posted By:
Ray AndersonBobby,
First off, let me say that I am on no one's "side" in this dispute (nor have I emailed or talked to anyone privately about this).
I (and I think most people here) can totally understand your frustration in this matter. You work your butt off on this project, have high hopes for it, and when you present it, you get some negative comments from people.
I think we've all been in that absolutely frustrating position before (whether it be turning in a science project and getting an F, or writing a long love letter to a girl only to have her ball it up in front of your face, etc).
However, that is the case when it comes to a business. My main point was this: When you run a business, you HAVE to take crap from people (at least if you want to last). It's (unfortunately) in the job description.
Picture a kid working at Taco Bell and a customer yelling at him that his taco is too cold and he wants a different one. The kid SHOULD smile, apologize, hand the guy a new one, and send him on his way. If the customer started cursing at the kid, throwing stuff at him, etc., then the kid should go to the back (privately) and get the manager.
What I think you should've done is politely responded, offered assistance where applicable, and moved on. If you thought someone was getting belligerent, you should've called the manager (in this case Leon).
I know that you're a member to this site like everyone else here, and have the same passion and desire to learn more about cards, discuss cards, etc., just as everyone else here has. But you have crossed the threshold from customer to merchant, and with that comes responsibility (to your business).
In the end, though, you're a grown man and can make your own choices on how you handle things. My opinion is just that - my opinion.
Personally, I don't want to see you, Jay, or anyone else banned from this site. I was actually sad when Sean left (if you're reading this Sean, hang in there, kid. Keep reading and keep learning).
As I said before, I actually enjoy the drama that comes up on this board. My post was more of a rant on the threads I've seen lately that have turned into shouting matches and put downs. While I DO enjoy them, I can only take so much. The "poll" was basically the spark that started my rant.
In regards to your site, I commend you and applaud you and your work (and the other people that helped you with it). I really think it's great all-around, and I think a lot of other people do as well. I also don't mind if you or anyone else posts updates, auction info, etc (that's Leon's job to figure that stuff out). I really hope you disregard the plain crap you do get from people, and realize it's going to happen. Pay more attention to the praise and the CONSTRUCTIVE criticism you receive.
On another note, while I'm still ranting, I want to thank Leon for all of his hard work, too. You somehow manage to walk the thin gray line of maintaining freedom of participation/speech AND making sure it doesn't get taken too far. Not to mention the overall fees, technical control, and "behind the scenes" stuff associated with the site. I know you get a lot of praise, and I just want to reiterate the fact that you deserve it.
Thanks, Ray