Warning... No misunderstanding...

This may be my last posting on Gaia, so I have given it a lot of thought.

If my account is suspended I can be contacted on

snowywebb56@yahoo.com

I have received an official warning from Siona

If a member has blocked you, continuing to write about them to other
members and using their names on forums constitutes harassment. Not only is this outside our guidelines, it violates our Terms of Use. 


Please consider this is a warning.

……………if there are any more complaints about you your
account will be suspended.


Due to the fact that people do take exception to that fact that my writing style challenges their faith and causes them to examine the basis of their belief, and therefore apparently upsetting them, it is only a matter of time before the final nail is place in the coffin and my account is suspended.

This has come about as a result of what I have believed is the inappropriate use of the blocking function.

I have been online for over 10 years and had never been blocked prior to joining Gaia 4 months ago.

What I find so abhorrent about its use is that it can be used without warning and without accountability, cutting off all direct contact with someone, that someone having no possible way of directly being able to sort out a misunderstanding or apologising for something the blocker has taken exception to.

It simply exacerbates the problem, forcing the person blocked to either involve others as go betweens, something I've been directed not to ask the Team to do, or go public, via a thread like this one, which constitutes harrasment as the above warning states.

What I would ask anyone that is tempted to use the blocking function to do is firstly consider whether you have tried to resolve the issue that has brought you to the point of wanting to block another, and secondly have you warned them that if they continue what is causing your concern that you will block them, so they are under no allusion as to why they are blocked when you do. 

In every instance that I have been blocked it has been done without warning and with no reason given.

I am writing this not to provoke further trouble but in the hope that others won't have to go through the same sense of bewilderment that I have experienced.

In love peace and in the hope of cooperation and understanding

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

A mystery, dear friend, why anyone would block you!  I can understand your bewilderment!  You must be saying good stuff!!!! As usual!

I hope you feel honored to know that you're so effective!  I adore you!!!!  I adore you!!! 

You are beautiful heart!  And quite intelligent! 

Whom do I send my letter to?  What is Sonia's, (did you say?) address?  I would like to write her and tell her what a blessing to the community you are!  What joy you have brought  me!  How many belly-laughs I've had in the last few months all from you charm and wit!  The encouragement and confidence that you've offered me!

Whom do I address?

Love, love, love…
Cheyenne

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

You are talking out of my heart Attainment!! Andrew has given me so much, too!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Andrew,

Dude, I was going to stand up and, er, like demonstate a bit too, but Cheyenne just took all the air out of the room with that laudacious blast.

Seer'iously, can you talk about this (you know, the triggered vexation of it) from the interior perspective as it were a present you must keep and use to the benefit of your accuser?

anyhoo, midnight's turned starry up here in frigid AK, and gunsmoke hangs in the air, but it'll be gone before the sun rises tomorrow, sure as hell on that.

Easy does it, even when it comes hard.

HNY
Michael

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Andrew,

Before I fire off a note to Sonia, do you think my doing so will get you further into trouble?  I don't plan to be rude.  I just want to be supportive of you and your plight.  Why should so many of us that treasure you and your posts be denied you and your posts because of some lame coward that doesn't have the courage to tell you up front what the problem may be and, as a result, is causing us all to possibly be hurt by Gaia taking you away from us? 

I remember once before something like this happened.  Does Gaia look into the exchanges that may have caused the problem to determine if this “blocking” was done based on genuine issues or perhaps just to cause you grief?   There may be some folks that are more sensitive than the “reasonable” standard.  How are you to know this if they do not tell you so?  I have been engaged in exchanges with some folks here that were at times argumentative.  Yet, we moved on from them without attempting to harm one another.  Seems like if you go on a board to discuss things, you have to be ready for discussions whatever direction they may take.  As long as you remain respectful, which I am sure you could be nothing but, what is the beef?

If you think contacting Sonia wont have the effect of making the problem worse for you, I shall do so.  Not because you have asked, but because I love having you around and would hate to have that taken from me.  It is a hard cruel world in which we live.  I like knowing you are here with me. 

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Thank you Cheyenne, Michael and Opening for your messages of support.

Frankly I cannot say what effect messages of support would have, but if all Siona has had are complaints about me then I don't think it could hurt.

I'm already seen as a troublemaker with anger/hostility issues, though I hold neither anger or hostility towards those that have blocked me, I'm over it and them, and only have love and forgiveness towards them.

The bottom line in this is that I've objected to the fact that  the right of an ambassador to block exceeds the right of a person to know why they have been blocked…

According to my reading of the warning in spite of freedom of speech considerations I may have exceeded the terms of the warning anyway just raising this issue here.

But if I disappeared I wanted to be sure people knew the issue over which my account was suspended and that it wasn't by choice.

In love and peace

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hey, what is an Ambassador?

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

The following is a quote from the Gaia.com Ambassadors manual

An Ambassador is a quintessential Gaia member, a community catalyst, dedicated peacemaker, steward, and facilitator of connection and inner transformation.

 You’re here because you already have a strong sense of your own purpose: you’re passionate about nurturing an incredible community both on and offline that supports personal and planetary interconnection, and a deep sense of understanding and care.

 You’re here to help other Gaia members (both those who’ve signed up online and those who share the planet around us!) feel at home and to help them be the change they wish to see, and to ensure that those around us feel heard, respected, loved and supported.

 You’re here to cultivate those seeds of compassion and growth within yourself, so they might flourish in the world as a whole.

And, you are here to work in tandem with the Team to make Gaia the best place it can be.

Of course, a community is only as strong (and wonderful and sweet and caring!) as its members, those beings who hold the overall values and intention behind it.

Ambassadors are essential to maintaining the intention and integrity of Gaia, and making sure we continue to create the strong gravitational pull that attracts those who resonate with these values..

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Good grief, Aussie, what 'd you do this time?

Actually, I believe anyone can block another member or terminate a “friend” status. And Pod cultivators, and possibly moderators, can remove people from groups. Not just ambassadors. Actually, it seems ambassadors have little power other than to promote “Gaia values,” whatever that might be.

Maybe you should settle down a bit because you get too riled up over things.

I dunno, just a suggestion…

mikeS

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I can please one person a day, today is not your day.  Tomorrow isn't looking too good either  (seen on T-shirt)

Actually Mike I don't get riled, but everybody seems to assume I do because I'm prepared to express my opinion.

I don't suffer fools gladly, am not prepared to be used as a doormat, I'm not a 'yes' man, and don't respond well to threats (warnings).

So, what can I say???

I rub some people up the wrong way.

in love and peace

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hey!!!

What happened to ”same shit different day…”? Did you delete your own post? You know what I say about BM's? They can be a very enlightening experience!

Don't let them break you, dude! LOL

So how would you define a “fool” that you refuse to “suffer gladly”?

You may have noted from other postings that I have that same propensity to “rub people the wrong way.” But never all the way.

Peace Brother,
mikeS

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

As I said in the header Mike, I'm one complaint away from termination.

I'm not silly enough to hand anyone my head on a platter.

Fool in the context of my use above is someone that thinks they are convincing everyone they are some kind of enlightened spiritual gift to mankind, not realising their friends are too kind to point out their charade isn't working and that they are making fools of themselves.

BTW the reason I referred to ambassadors rights to block exceeding the rights of the blocked person is that it is only ambassadors that have blocked me.  I just expected some accountability, based partly on that extract from the ambassadors manual I printed above.

Perhaps I read it wrong.

“Such is life” - Bushranger (Outlaw) Ned Kelly's last words prior to being hung at the Melbourne Gaol

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I don't understand why someone blocking you would lead to you being kicked out, or even warned regarding it.   Unless you posted something that was inappropriate, it would see the wisest and common sense approach would be to allow the individuals to work it out themselves.  We are adults are we not? 

It seems beyond reason to advise someone that they will be kicked out because they had a dissagreement with someone.  I have read things that you have posted that were sarcastic in nature, but never disrespectful.  There are some egg heads on here.  Should your right to point out the weaknesses in their view point, or method of delivery, be considered any worse than some of the dribble that they post? 

I have never, not once, read a post where it was apparent that you had lost your temper–not once.  I even look for your posts so that I can join in conversations with you.  You have made suggestions that I examine some of the thoughts and feelings I have expressed in a different light.  I have often done just that and came away with a fresher perspective.  This is true with my exchanges with many of the Gaia members.  I came here not only to express myself, but also to grow, to learn.  You have aided me in doing so.  So, whatever happens, let me take this opportunity to say thank you!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Opening,

The last time I was blocked I did react in an inappropriate manner, which lead to my being sacked as an ambassador.

The purpose of this thread was to raise the issue of blocking in light of the consequences of the one blocked.

If Gaia was just one of the hundreds of social networking sites who'd care??? 

I think most of the people drawn to this site would look for ways to encourage communication, rather than kill it.

an eccentric Aussie

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I have no personal reason to be either for or against you, so please keeep in mind I am saying the following from a neutral perspective.

Andrew, you can not make everyone love you. Sometimes personalities clash, and rub each other the wrong way. When a person blocks you it is their personal choice. It's not misuse to choose not to communicate with a person that you cannot agree with, and blocking is an effort for peace by letting go. I had to block a young man myself because he could not talk to me (via private message) without swearing and insulting me for no real reason other than being a potty mouth. While you might not be like that, if your words upset another the way this fellow's words upset me, the only thing you could do is bow out of the situation and let that person go on his/her way.

I'm sorry you were so hurt by being blocked, but you need to let it go.  This wound is not worth carrying in your heart. When you continue to pick at it, it only bleeds more.

It does not matter if this person has blocked you. It was the past, and clinging to it in the way you have is only making your wound worse. You cannot heal until you choose to accept that this is the way it is with this person, and that your life will be better and more peaceful by allowing them to go on their way, and allowing yourself to go on your own.

I wish you peace.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I appreciate your input Allison.

I wasn't hurt so much by being blocked as left wondering and perplexed as to what I'd done to be blocked.

As I've already mentioned I'd never been blocked prior to joining Gaia 4 months ago yet I've been on the internet over 10 years.

I've always viewed it as the most severe form of censure short of being kicked off.

Blocking someone that has ignored a request to stop communicating or has failed to change their approach having been warned, would seem fair enough.

On each of the first 3 occasions I was blocked I had no idea what I had done.  They had been on my friends list.

I wanted to know firstly so I could try to address it so as not to upset someone else and secondly to apologise.

I don't expect everyone to be my friend but they had been

But as I just said to Opening, the majority of people drawn to Gaia would look for ways to encourage communication not kill it.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

hi Andrew
I've enjoyed your various posts here and elsewhere as well.
I appreciate your tenacity around this issue, although, as I have already mentioned to you elsewhere - some misunderstandings ( or other difficult situations) are simply never resolved.  so - there is an opportunity to cultivate a different “relationship” with the situation…. if you want to.
I'd be sad to not read your posts anymore…  but c'est la vie… 
warm regards
arpita

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I did open a discussion group

http://pods.gaia.com/does_communication_carry_within_responsibility

at Andrew's last leaving. Simply to consider, if - having friends wherever in the world, do we not carry responsibility with it?!? I mean, is it o.k., ethic and kind to just leave a friend without explanation and obstructing any kind of communication around it?

Now, people do that all the time - and it has hurt me, too. So, what can I do about that? - Nothing. Nothing? Even hurt, I opted for seing this as an opportunity to practice ultimate compassion. Somebody who act's that way - deliberately leaving -, must be upset, hurt, angry, offended or whatsover him or herself. I realize, it is not ME who this person is leaving, but the PAIN this person carries around which is triggered by something he saw in me. And also, this person is simply unable to emphasize with somebody elses feelings; even more reason to practice my compassion with her.

There is, nevertheless, another scenario I have experienced at gaia and myspace. I saw once in my grapevine three consecutive days greetings from a “friend”. After attending my family, kids, profession and other errands I found after a couple of days the time to answer the kindness… and….. couldn't access. I took me about 2 weeks of trying to access to say thanks you, until it ocurred to me that I had been blocked. So, what happened? Somebody had a certain EXPECTANCY about me, which I didn't accomplished. Well, I am sorry for that, but there is nothing I can do about it. As well as other people can't change that I am busy, and even if I like Gaia, there is a whole other life I am attending, in the same dynamic, I can't change the fact that somebody had put his “personal friend limit policy”  by expecting an answer in a limitted time frame, and - “if you do not do what I want, I quit”.

I so much wish, communication could be so much easier. But sometimes it isnt'. I can't but visualize to attract into my reality better communication, and - for the times it doesn't happen that way - practice tolerance, acceptance and compasion, as well.

This attitude I chose for me,  for sure, is making me a being I like better to be with, I feel better to be with, and - hopefully - is easier to be with for other, too.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

For you, Andrew. Remember, that all people who had made a difference in the world, clashed somehow with others. Even Ghandi!!!

Keep on being yourself!! Keep on with all you say and do!! How great that you have such important things to say to actually WAKE UP some people (waking up from a millennium sleep can be painful). And I, myself like to be shaken up by the laughter and amazement you cause in me. Thanks for that.

Lot's of LOVE to you!!!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I joined this group so I could comment here!!!!

For one, I am just getting to know Andrew and by reading some of his other posts, it appears he pushes the limits, but that is what makes conversation fun and interesting.  His posts encourage us to think for ourselves from every view point and aspect.  That's how you know when you are passionate about something; if someone can push you to get heated about it, that's a great thing!

As for the person who was offended, there may have been other things that transpired and unfortunately, when it is in writing, it is very difficult to tell someone's “tone” and often things can be misread.

Anyway …

I have been one of the “offended” (not by Andrew).  At one time, I chose to block someone because of a correspondence that was sent to me that made me feel extremely uncomfortable.  It was very impulsive and very “bipolar” in appearance. There were no “harsh words” per se, but the “atmosphere” of the correspondence was frightening to me.  Now some would have thought I was being unreasonable and some would have understood.  No matter what, it was my choice and I did not make any “formal” complaints because the situation could have been taken one way or another.

With this in mind, I would like to put in a good word for Siona here.  During my “blocking” situation, I asked Siona what the person would be subjected to.  She kindly asked if I would be willing to fill her in on the situation and I did so.  Then, she graciously tried to understand the other person's situation and even wanted me to understand that I may have hurt the other person's feelings.  When I explained to her my reasons for why I did it, she politely accepted why I did so and that it was my own choice.  All she wanted was for all of us to feel comfortable and safe in the Gaian atmosphere.

Just wanted to come in and add something!  I know I am actually looking forward to the day when Andrew might push my buttons and make me realize something I am extremely passionate about! 

Just be you, Andrew!  Not everybody gets along with everybody.  I have even had someone delete me from their friends list (without giving me the heads up) after they offended me once and I chose to write about it (not even using names).  Apparently, I was the offensive one.  To each his own.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Thank you Daydreamer.

I want to make something absolutely clear.

I have the utmost respect and love for Siona.

This thread is not about making a judgement regarding whose right or wrong.

I accept the blame , I am responsible for how I react to any situation I just wish I knew what it is that I did to cause this.  No one will tell me.

I unequivocally apologise to those that I have offended that I cannot name but I have to be careful because I respect their right to block me and I am not going to use this forum as a way of manipulating or shaming anyone to do anything they are not comfortable with.

The point of this thread is to ensure that when my account is suspended my friends understand why and that I have raised peoples awareness regarding the blocking issue in the hope it will be used with appropriate discretion in future.

I would never condone judging any of the individuals involved.  They have done nothing technically wrong.

I included the warning I received to show I'm not being a drama queen, that I am on my first and final warning.

Siona and I have corresponded extensively regarding this situation and I know she has not taken this step lightly.

Unfortunately I am like a dog with a bone. I don't know when to quit and I wont roll over and play dead.

I have never been frightened to stand up for what I believe, and I fully accept whatever the consequences of my actions may be.

I hope this clears up any question as to motive for my starting this thread.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Well, Andrew I think what you have done here is a good thing.  How can we learn if we do not recognize when we have been “in the wrong?”  Also, making your friends aware of the possibility of losing you here is a good idea too - that way no one worries that something terrible has happened to you.

Remain in self peace … what you have done here is respectable.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

People are people and misunderstandings are going to happen.  It is up to each individual to determine how far they are going to go in communicating what they perceive as a slight or to express what they may be assuming to make sure they aren't way off base. 

It is funny how in this bubble that is Gaia  we see how everything we so object to in the world plays out here as well.  I am a very open and honest person.  However, folks may choose to read in between the lines I write and see intentions on my part that aren't there.  If they do, they do.   People can look for ulterior motives in just about anything anyone says or does.   Maybe Gaia has become a “home” in such a way as to cause them to place great deal of  importance on how others react to them.  I see it as dropping in on “the commune” or an old time general store where people used to go to socialize and discuss various issues.   If somone gets on my nerves, I avoid them or ignore them.  Or, if it becomes to much for a while I may decide to “just stay home”.  Maybe part of its attraction for other people is that they can “block” someone on here, whereas, in the non-virtual world they cannot. 

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Andrew-

It seems the snowflakes you pointed to earlier this week have begun their movement down the mountain slope.  The Avalanche may be inevitable…

When you sent out that initial message, a sort of plea for help, I was going to offer a statement by which you could find the wisdom you needed, within yourself.  I appologize that I put my instinct on hold for more personal needs away from the virtual social network!

I reviewed the beginnings of the thread you linked in your plea for help, and I was reminded of what Jean Baudrillard defines as information and what he defines as communication. 

According to my understanding (after all, the man is French, and Non parlez-vous francais…) information is presented in a format such as media, in which the interaction does not carry  tone-of-voice, sense-of-humor, or body language.  In the case of video-blogs or television broadcasts, the viewer is still subject to emotional separation from that which (s)he is viewing.

Communication, however, can be emotionally related to.  Think of what it's like to read fifty years of comprehensive history on the factors going into the Palastine/Israel conflict, a personal account of the anguish behind the lives.  Consider the emotion you automatically invest, through that nifty medium of your imagination…as opposed to seeing a minute (an eternity!) of a wailing child and hearing that the person was injured in an airstrike, before the network cuts to commerical or the next story.  You know something's wrong with the situation, but you have no way to perch comprehension on the ledge of “Why?”

Reading your first post in the linked thread, I could see where the phrasing itself seemed direct, therefore chilled…and your sense of humor, tone of desparation, sad-but-true attitude may have been overlooked.  I can't read a tone of irony.  I can't hear your voice.

You could be percieved as the bull in the China shop, my friend, through no fault of your own.  It's a matter between a phone call or an e-mail:  Unless I know you well, I interpret the content of your message based on MY mood…because yours is absent from online discussion forums, essentially.

I have run into this problem, in which every attempt at clarifying passed communication maddeningly increases any misinterpretation in the first place.  I have lost very close friendships because my texts were misunderstood, and the recipient was too passive to pick up a phone, call, and clarify.

Please do not take up a crusade against Siona (many of your crusaders have transposed the array, the letters of her name, in the first place…)  I feel she is simply doing a duty that comes with administration of an international public forum…for much the same reasons this snowball began rolling in the first place.  Terms of Use are stated for “fact of the matter” legalities, the ultimate structure on which interaction can be hinged or judged.

Being Blocked is a misunderstanding.  Pleading with the Parliment can be (mis)interpreted as a method of passive-aggressively contacting the offended or bolstering your side of a conflict that arrose through a private thread…in which the only Public necessary to involve are those of the thread itself.  Gossip, no matter how how non-partisian, fuels misunderstanding.

I agree that you should have been given a chance to explain yourself to she who blocked you, but it was only one lost friendship.  I could sense the conflict's birth in the first reply which stated something to the effect of “cynical” and “cold” reaction, regarding your “Welcome to the World of Big Brother” post. 

Rather than slowing down and ensuring you were not being misunderstood by the parties, your reply stated seeing no necessity to appologize for speaking a truth.  Again, the post was read as too direct, and therefore cold.

Andrew, I'm a Military Man.  I deal with this same misunderstanding with those I supervise every day.  It's frustrating.

But the most healthy thing to do is step away and wait for an opportunity to appologize for all misunderstanding.  If there is no opportunity presented, at least you will have grown through another interesting situation…a Lesson, if you will.  God/Life/The Process made humans social creatures for a reason, after all…

Blessings, and peace-of-mind.

Hope to see you on here, in a week.  Invite me as a friend, in fact, if you'd like.

Jason

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Thank you Jason,

For clarity this is not about judging people or taking sides. 

I appreciate your counsel and the substantial amount of time you put into responding.

It is possible that this thread will be seen as provocative no matter what I say, so I'm speaking from the heart and hoping for the best.

If Gaia.com was just one of the thousands of social networking sites that litter the internet who would care??? but this community stands for higher ideals, bridging rifts, resolving conflicts, clearing up misunderstandings, expressing love, compassion, understanding, taking respect to a higher level, being lead by the heart recognising the intrinsic value of every soul.

When communication is cut off, any hope of sorting the situation, whatever the cause, is cut off with it.

I don't think I can express it any more clearly.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I only been in this community for a lil over two weeks (only active for the last day) and I go searching and find this.  And granted I don't know any of you but had a chance to read the post and comments and hopefully this isn't misunderstood ima just try to drop some knowledge.  First it seems that in this virtual world you still deal with the problems of the real world because of people I guess every space will always have its touch of negative in any form with the positive just the world we live in whatver form it takes.

But to my point of view, if it were me in a space and someone didn't want to interact with me or didn't want to deal with me then I will leave that be and never mention that senario again because that is negativity in which that person has to deal with within and me mentioning it in any form will be taken as provacation.  People anywhere are people and one may have more understanding then the other but you can never pust anyone to understand in any way even if one feels its positive.  One must come to thier own realization of thier actions and analyze themselve to see the misunderstanding that they had (if there is any) because not all understand things the same way (to me that is common knowledge)

As for Siona (is she an ambassador) she is just doing her job whether it is seen as good or bad (in my opinion) so actions of hers shouldn't really come up. It is like blaming a person for doing what they are in position to do.

These are the trials of life to function with the other people in the world.  And it seems to be no different here.  There is alot that comes into play in my eyes for this one senario but for me coming out of the blue and saying detail after detail from how the words were put together to how the other sees things and takes things in is not my place.  I hope in what little is put here some understanding can be drawn from it.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Ha-Abir,

You say:  “These are the trials of life to function with the other people in the world.  And it seems to be no different here.  There is alot that comes into play in my eyes for this one senario but for me coming out of the blue and saying detail after detail from how the words were put together to how the other sees things and takes things in is not my place.  I hope in what little is put here some understanding can be drawn from it.”

Ha-Abir, I beg to differ.  It is your place, and, in my eyes, the “what little”  that you have added may be more substantial to others reading and writing here than you might realize.

For my part, I see that it is in our community's interest to foster and secure, a safe, decorous, fertile, creative, and impartial ethic.

Well-considered protocol is key to a live sense of security and the feeling of “safety-in-the-open” so critical to community.  When a misunderstanding prompts one party to close communications with another party, it is in the community's interest imho to protect that individual's right to disengage no matter what.  Autonymy in this regard is a paramount consideration for me.  Without that option, I would be gone.  I expect that this is one issue that both mgt and the mbr can agree upon whole heartedly.

That said, (boy do I not like to use that phrase) I also consider it of vital importance to the community that the “blocked,” if inclined, be given an opportunity to discuss their side of the “incident(s)” in a manner that was inherently civil and supported both the autonymy and the dignity of both, or all parties involve.

Again, coming back to Ha-Abir:

“But to my point of view, if it were me in a space and someone didn't want to interact with me or didn't want to deal with me then I will leave that be and never mention that senario again because that is negativity in which that person has to deal with within and me mentioning it in any form will be taken as provacation.  People anywhere are people and one may have more understanding then the other but you can never pust anyone to understand in any way even if one feels its positive.  One must come to thier own realization of thier actions and analyze themselve to see the misunderstanding that they had (if there is any) because not all understand things the same way (to me that is common knowledge)”

Misunderstandings, OR alienations of affection, whichever, need to be arbitrated by an in-place protocol that would activate the moment that one party was feeling a need for “space.”  It would be impingent upon the other member who was being asked to support such disengagement, to do so in as civil a manner as possible - more, rather than less deference would be the direction that I would encourage, protocol-wise.

Moderators are around to note any between-the-lines posting of innuendo-laden bad talk or character assasination.  It is, as we are all completely aware, totally obvious anyway when someone does it.

I never have liked the flag button as that can be abused by cliqueishness and fosters an “us and them” mentality. 

Pretension cuts both ways:  I have talked out of my ass more than once since I got here.  It happens.  People say and do strange things on this site, calling the issue of accountability to the table - as regards both sanctimonious or derisive judgment AND ill-informed posturing and posing.

There needs to be freedom for all writers to “take their best shot and skip the friggin' formalities,” if you know what I mean.

What happens after that, if the “target or recipient” of said “disclosure,” chooses to take other action besides firing back or pushing the flag button, or pushing the “block” button, will have to follow a disclosure and adjudication process that protects the autonymy and dignity of both parties without jeapordizing the community's interests.

The community does not nec. need to be drug through the issues of a couple of members struggling with each other across pods and threads - for that is usually where the trouble really lies - one person rubs another the “wrong” way - “wrong” being in the eye of the beholder - and we each get to be the judge of that as far as the critically important “blocking” mechanism goes.

Intentionally “rubbing” another who has not invited said “rubbing” is right up to the threshold of trespass in an online community such as this, imo.  This holds whether such rubbing is critical or “seductive.”

Aggressive, demeaning, and otherwise “obstreperous” behaior challenges the safety-arising-from-secure-agreements vibration which is absolutely essential if this salon/forum thing is going to continue to attract the soul, spirit, creativity, wit, and compassion complementary to this time.

When the community is stressed, (poor little hive) and sides may be taken, it is important to remember that our interest is first in community and the creative vibration overall which does not call us to put out the fire, or hide it so much as it asks that we seek to husband and to nurture this fire in ourselves and others - no matter how divergent it may be from we think we know.

As Opening says upthread, we are adults.  Its our turn to get it right. 

We can.

Michael

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I appreciate your feedback, for elaborating in a more formal way( I am working on that) I am glad that what I wrote is understood (my word choices isn't the best).  One of the reasons I mentioned that it wasn't my space because in my eyes it is like me coming into a new village and the people don't know me, and I will say here is some suggestion, there is a good chance in my opinion that it can be taken the wrong way.  Also I always pratice humility in every situation so I will be able to learn and understand more. 

For me that is why a key word I feel for people working to operate in a community is “understanding”.  If you appoach any situation you have to take into account that you are going to affect the person in some way and they you.  And if you are not at least aware of how that person views reality (which is impossible to determine here) then a sense of responsibility comes for the ones of understanding.  That is (for me anyway) the essense of freedom is to know and understand the space that you are in, in order to move freely in it. 

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Greetings Orchod and welcome to Gaia and specifically the Misunderstood pod.

I appreciate your input to this discussion however there are a couple of things I'd like to add to Michaels response.

This thread is NOT about judging actions that have already been taken.

What is, is.

Siona is an ambassador but she is also the director of Gaia.com with overall responsibility. She is assisted by the'Team' a term you will read from time to time.  They are paid employees and Siona and the Team are held in the highest regard and esteem by anyone that has had any dealings with them.  They are all 110% committed to the success of this website and you will find they are all approachable and helpful.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

AH! Excellent!

Now you are back in their good graces. 

Ingenious  strategy!!

Peace Angels : )
mikeS

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

One does what one can Mike.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

If my input was taken that way then I apologize, and if I am incorrect in understanding what you said again I apologize.  I put is as “what was learned” senario.  But I thank you for the information I will keep that in mind about these”titles” and things =)

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

For us, who have been in situations of being blocked out of communication with others, I do like very much a quote from David R. Hawkins book “The I”. Check it out if you wish. It certainly might help to see the situation from another angle - and hopefully diminsh the pain. Love to you all!!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I had to join here , well I could not go without saying a word.

For me I have blocked , and have been blocked.
Whatever I say, that is the way the cookie crumbles.
Andrew , I love you as a great friend , and what everother people want to do , that is up to them.
Today for the first time , I am following my bliss , and am very giddy.
Well , to the you the honest truth , the hell with security.
The hell with blocking.
I am showing love , and going have some fun while I am here.
I really do not care what others think!
I just love, and am me.
:0)

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Andrew,

This is a good discussion, and I don't want to belabour any of the excellent points already made, just clarify a few things, as an Ambassador, a pod moderator of the God Pod, a friend of yours and one who has been kept informed of the various twists and turns in this story:

1. There is a group of people who are employed by Gaiam, the company that owns this site. They refer to themselves as the Gaia Team, and include Siona, the Team Leader, Jessica, who does “outreach” and looks after the Ambassadors, and Matthew, Head Tech Wizard (for their exact titles and more about them see here)  . These three (along with a former employee C4Chaos, who is much less active here these days) are mods for the Ambassadors pod. 

2. Ambassadors like myself are volunteers. We don't work for Gaiam, and as Mike pointed out, we are pretty much like all other Gaia members in terms of our “powers” - the only difference I can think of is that we are usually a little more accessible because people can post on our grapevine even if they are not on our friends' list. That is, of course, unless we block people, which is the point you've been trying to make, Andrew, and a good one it is. :)

We're here, according to the blurb linked on your left toolbar “Ambassadors”, “if you need help with anything, or want to be introduced, or just want a little assistance getting started on the site”

3. After some discussion in the Ambassador's Pod, the Gaia Team clarified its official position on blocking by itself (it doesn't block) and by ambassadors:

“One, no, the Team does not use the block feature. We are here to serve you and if someone violates our TOU so severely or acts so dangerously as to deserve blocking from a Team member, then they probably have done enough to deserve deletion. Personally, if someone sends me a message that makes me uncomfortable or seems unhealthy, but doesn't violate the TOU, I will let them know in a friendly way. If it were to continue, I would let them know in a message that I don't respond to that type of communication. Good, clear, articulated boundaries are the key for me.

“That said, Ambassadors are not expected to uphold the same standard as the Team. But, we do ask that you try to avoid the block feature because people go to you for help. If you can't resolve a conflict or really need space, we hope you can tell the person that you don't want them to message you upfront, in a very polite, ambassadory way rather than blocking. If you feel threatened, then you should alert the Team.”

4. From the way I read the warning to you from Siona, it should be fine to continue to discuss this or any issue as long as we don't mention the names of those involved. It seems a very reasonable and considerate part of the Terms of Use to me.

Though I personally don't believe in using the blocking function, I thought Michael explained the “safety” aspect for the community very well in his post higher up in this thread.

I'm really sorry for all the pain this has caused you, Andrew.

At the same time, at least one good thing has come out of this.

I think a clear message has been sent by the Team and received by the Ambassadors. We have also had an opportunity to talk it through openly and reaffirm our commitment to care. Only time will tell how we all put the information to use, of course.

Let's hope that it will be for the best for the community, as Ambassadors who are only here to help and nurture our mutual bonds.

Love,

Nicole

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Well said Nicole, really, and thank you, Andrew, for maintaining your fine Aussie poise on the way through this constriction.

Yaaaayyyy!!!!  Now let's get back to makin' some money, er, … honey!

What a fab way to start out the ol' New Year!  (heh heh)

cheers,

Michael

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Opening

You have helped me to realise that Gaia is seen as a sanctuary, a bubble of peace and harmony. I am trying to be more gentle.

Nicole

Thank you for putting everything in perspective and tying up the loose ends.  You are proof that a person can aspire to the description of an ambassador I posted earlier in this thread,

Orchod

Your humility is commendable and appreciated but you didn't say anything that you needed to apologise  for.  This pod is here to address misunderstandings. Nicole pointed out something  in her post that I had misunderstood.  We are here to help each other.  I had responded to you as I had because it was important to me that you understood I wasn't judging people. I just re read what I wrote and I apologise to you for being so blunt.

Mike S

Ever the diplomat.  So subtle.  If you weren't such a cream puff I'd probably suggest you were teasing me and trying to get a rise out of  me for being 'nice'.  But if I did that you'd start crying and run off and tell a teacher.

Silke

Beautiful angel with the heavenly voice


Gaia Godess

Bliss is the word


Michael

Lets party!!!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hey Andrew, you village idiot!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Thank you Dave.

I think point no.3 is the missing link.

If it could be initiated somehow at least the person blocked could indicate there was no offence intended or express a change of heart if they realised they were out of line.  If the blocked person did nothing then the person doing the blocking would know they had taken the correct action.

I think another improvement would be a time limit on the block, perhaps a month. If the person blocked is a serial pest that continues to harras once the block times out, then bringing them to the attention of the Team would be the next logical step, to determine how best to deal with it.

I don't think an indefinite block is a good thing, it too closely resembles and promotes unforgiveness.

In peace and love in the interests of reconciliation

an eccentric Aussie

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

AND NOW we all get to apply the new tools and understandings gathered to new situations with ever increasing subtleness.

It's nice to see tenacity and huge bunch of care and wisdom pulled together like this.

Blessings, David

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

hi ! 
      I appreciate you Andrew,   I don't think if anyone who had to face similar situation would stand up and express his/her feeling  like the way you are doing.
thank you

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

OH Andrew this is SO sad!!

I just don't understand and think it very unfair that you
have been threatened with expulsion!!!

Sure, you have a bit of of a different approach, but for people
to take that out of context is wrong.
We are all different just because you don't mince your
words or suck up -does not justifiy you being banned.

You have my vote, fellow Aussie -and that's all you are-
a fair dinkum Aussie,not your fault some people dont
understand your manner!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Ummm I'm still here Sandy.

I've achieved what I setout to do which was to raise the awareness of the effect of being blocked in peoples minds.

I don't know if there will be any change to Gaia policy on the issue but the situation remains that the blocking feature can be used by any member against any other member indiscriminately without any form of accountability.

If the person blocked tries to make contact or uses the name of the person doing the blocking in any forum then that constitutes harrasment.

To my mind preventing communication without some accountability goes against everything I thought Gaia represents.

I must be terribly naive. 

An eccentric Aussie

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Andrew,

I think the fact the Team recommends ambassadors don't use it is significant.

On a site like this, it's a really difficult job to balance openness with safety.

Apparently is, the Team did not expect the blocking function to be used so quickly and indiscriminately, but once it was already in play, it wasn't easy to undo.

Everyone has their comfort level when it comes to communication with people who are mostly strangers. I have come to peace that some people, even at times those I really like, may get to the place where they no longer feel comfortable dealing with me at all. That's where they are for now, and it's ok, though it's not what I would prefer, they have that freedom to choose not to work things through.

Love,

Nicole

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Nicole,

I think it depends on whether the 'change you want to be' is something you do or something you are.

To someone that is the change they want to be keeping the lines of communication open would be paramount.  In this respect the Team is setting the example.

Using the excuse the Team are paid employees is a pathetic cop out.  You can pay someone to do a job, you can't pay them to be commited, as anyone that has ever employed people knows.

Cutting off communication should be a last resort, not something to be used at the first sign of an inconvenient or challenging opinion

To someone that is truly committed to helping others to be the change they want to be I don't think the thought of blocking would enter their realm of consciousness.

In love and peace.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

In the spirit of unconditional love… I love what the Dalai Lama once said when he was asked about the Chinese Government's acquisition of Tibet…

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Yes, we are all growing, learning and understanding-
Dave-I hope!

And in the Spirit of Unconditional love, that is what we
should be practising here on Gaia-
and we are supposed to love our enemies, however hard that
may be.

And Andrew -I am sure you would much rather contribute
your wisdom and wit in more worthy discusions -
than having to always justify yourself!

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Dear Andrew,

I wouldn't distinguish on the basis that the Team are paid, but rather, they have different responsibilities and freedoms as well than the rest of us.

We are all where we are in terms of our strengths and weaknesses in communication. How can we encourage each other to grow in the most beneficial way?

Love,

Nicole

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I agree Nicole, no argument there.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Dear Andrew, what has happened now?  I haven't had a chance to go back and see what your crime was, but I can't believe someone would block you.  I find you to be the most intelligent and humorous person I have ever “met”!

Please don't let anyone ever stop you from visiting here. The very pettiness that would cause someone to block another person, is what we're trying to get away from on this website. (At least that's what my feeling is.)

I, myself, have not been on Gaia for a couple of weeks because I work at a college which was on winter break for three weeks and our internet service at home is dismal at best. (Banging on a rock in Morse Code would work better, but it's too time-consuming.)

Perhaps my intuition led me to sign in today so I can talk you out of leaving. Don't do anything rash. I for one always get a huge smile out of your ponderings and answers to my questions.

Peace, love, and support,

Sarah

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

You are a delight Sarah.

I have had some communication with Siona over the last couple of days but nothing was said about the warning so either no one has complained or messages of support outnumbered the complaints.

I don't particularly want to say anything here to rekindle hostility with anyone.

I believe everything that can be said has been said in this thread, for anyone to read.

I am blessed to say I have had feedback from people I didn't know saying they had removed blocks because this thread had made them realise the impact blocking can have.

In that respect this thread exceeded my expectations.

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

That's really great news, Andrew. You have achieved something significant, if people are removing blocks because of this thread.

Hugs,

Nicole

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Blocking should be reserved for someone who has said something that is so malicious they should be banned from the site, in my not so humble opinion.

I try to stay away from discussions where I could get ugly (smile) or where someone else is annoying me.

There are certain topics I don't want to discuss, so I stay away. Perhaps that would be a good lesson for the more inflammatory types.

We love you, Andrew.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

P.S. Does anyone see the irony in this discussion on the “Misunderstood?” thread…..lol?

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Sarah,

I've been thinking about your question on 'irony', and all I can come up with is a whole lot of understanding.

I've made efforts on others' behalf for members to consider removing blocks, or even moreso.. engaging in conversation with the person who was blocked.

My overall observation is that not only do they feel totally justified in having blocked another member, they feel no need to explain themselves, and certainly have no desire to ever communicate with the person they blocked, under any circumstances.  They also feel quite upset at me for even suggesting they consider mending fences, or even allowing someone to apologize. 

While I certainly would never act that way, it is important to respect thier right to create a wall of privacy and security around their personal community within Gaia.  There are a ton of gated communities in the world, and Gaia gives members the freedom to create thier own at many levels.

I still think we should call it the privacy function or something like that… which suggests a member may have blocked tons of people to create a more comfortable experience of privacy, rather than leaving one person with the stigma that they have been blocked… forever.

Dave

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I would like to shed some skin on this topic of blocking and hope that this could offer another perspective to this discussion.

I understand the need to prevent people from coming into our space when our safety is at risk both in life or on a social internet forum, that is one issue and serious it is.

I even understand the inner discipline it requires to walk away and know when just to let go of certain situations. I completely understand that we all may not like each other. Finally, I respect the fact that we are all on our own paths at different rates.

What I struggle the most with is when humans (self included) do not engage the values and principles preached or claimed. Or when our words and actions do not line up with each other.

This issue of engaging the blocking feature on this website or in life under any other guise, I agree perpetuates the turmoil, the situation itself, prevents growth and valuable learning opportunities for all involved.

“Blocking” is the easy way out. I know this as I have “blocked” others from entering my life for no other reason than I was ignorant and a coward to handle the situations. This is where I once was on my path.

These “blocking” experiences do not however run out of opportunity for returning to them to learn, forgive, and even heal. A couple of years ago, I finally came into a space on my path to realize that after 10 years of “blocking” another person ( who harmed me greatly) from my life was fruitless. This individual went through great lengths to ask for my forgiveness and my time to explain. I denied this to them, I even felt this perpetuated turmoil I caused was justified for their actions. Two summers ago, I traveled far to reach out to this person to seek healing for all of us. Forgiveness and letting go grew miracles for us both. I now know this person is attempting to fully engage in their life, finally.

When one person heals, we all benefit.

I also witnessed the power of forgiveness and understanding while having the privilege of sitting in Native Healing Circles where the victim and the offender sought healing and forgiveness face to face. The circumstances raised within the circle can be very serious and comprising matters. Community is integral to our survival and these mediated circles are powerful examples of this teaching.

We cannot afford to cast aside our “misunderstood”.

As a Director of a street youth organization for many years, I worked for “societies misunderstood.” It takes great strength and character to reach beyond ourselves to understand each other. I expected this of every volunteer that signed up with us. They represented our organization and the values we struggled to implement equally as the rest of us.

Finally, I would also like to share that just before the holiday break I ran into an ex love whom I also “blocked.” I walked away from a situation in which I should have walked into. I held regret of my actions for a very long time. I wanted to reach out to this person many times through out the years to ask for forgiveness and even explain myself but I was too embarrassed. I am grateful for running into them and that my apology was accepted. This person shared that even after all this time they never stopped wondering what they did wrong.

It was not them…it was me. I was a runner and a blocker for a good chunk of my life, I did not know how to handle the difficult things so I was careless with other peoples hearts and feelings. Now that I know better, I do better and expect the same in return. I encourage my children and others to reach out beyond themselves and try to understand.  

This can be our most valuable source of knowledge we can use to make some serious change in our world.

From this perspective I would encourage us to ask ourselves before we block someone from our life, “is it me or is it them?”

Thank you Andrew for addressing this issue and sharing honestly as you possible can here with us. Thank you for letting me breathe with “both nostrils in action” in our little group.

Thank you for demonstrating the characteristics of a true friend. I admire your tenacity to understand yourself better and grow.

I give thanks for all those that stand by me in all my asinine maneuvers and misunderstandings, how fortunate I suddenly see that I am.

All my relations,

Denim

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Thank you Denim,

What a beautiful, wise post.  It is too bad that when someone blocks… it is a negative action… that hurts both people… and it isn't always the offender who needs to heal.. it is both people.

Blocking is like a double edged sword… it cuts into the heart of both the blocker and the blocked person. 

D

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

What an amazing effect a little tolerance and desire to understand can make.

I am so blessed to find that people are willing to open up and share, not to benefit themselves but that others may benefit by realising the consequences of an unforgiving action.

Denim, thank you for being so honest in revealing your experience and your reference to the POWER OF FORGIVENESS and for me the quote of this thread…

When one person heals, we all benefit.

Dave, you are amazing.  You are a peacemaker. Though there is nothing in this for you, you have been prepared to stick your neck out to build bridges that others may benefit. Thank you for your support.

Sarah thank you for your straightforward input.

Nicole thank you for giving added perspective.

Sandy your support adds credibility to the point of this discussion.

When one person heals, we all benefit.

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I am simply amused and/or amazed that the judgment of multiple Ambassadors has been so easily slighted and that no-one apparently has questioned why Ambassadors, who stand for the community values repeatedly and have themselves not been complained for, sufficiently to be themselves penalised, would feel the need to take such a bold, big step as to block any individual!

Having been an Ambassador myself before, I know the responsibility which comes with the [unpaid] title, and the self control that has to go into thickening the skin at highly offensive statements of every kind. It isn't simple and should not suddenly be treated as such IMO.

As a [simple] community member now [since I gave up the title, undesirous of the additional stresses which come with this responsibility], I know of and have counselled many highly intelligent, peace making persons who were completely railroaded, harassed, stalked, hunted… I daresay abused by persons in this community and had little recourse but to remove themselves from the forum for their own sense of safety.

I recall a similar sequence of events happening a few months ago and it led to the departure of some outstanding, highly contributive members of this community in frustration and quite some disappointment. Some are still recovering from the impact of that unfortunate time.

The efforts from GAIA in this instance, might be based on learnings from that episode which definitely disrupted this community big time!

The Ambassadors who field the wealth of queries and questions that come up here and help to keep the standards up in terms of peaceful, progressive discussion, ought to be given a little credit for their discernment about what is satisfactory for themselves… They are not little kids; check them out…

And frankly, if they want to block they have the right to, and peacemakers that we all claim to be, we ought definitely NOT to judge them for addressing what they determine is for their wellbeing.

That's my thoughts on this.

Peace and much respect where it's due, to all.

Sherrilene

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Sherrilene I don't think you realise it but you have me at a disadvantage because I am not allowed to address issues you have raised,

If a member has blocked you, continuing to write about them to other
members and using their names on forums constitutes harassment. Not only is this outside our guidelines, it violates our Terms of Use.

I didn't realise until I received this warning how far reaching the consequences of being blocked were. I cannot even tell you by email what happened without it being considered harassment.

Others that block can and have publically said what they wanted about me on the ambassadors pod, but I can not say anything in my defence without it constituting harassment while I remain blocked.

Until I am told otherwise by Siona, my status is I am currently under a warning - there only needs to be one more complaint made against me and my account will be suspended.

In sweetness and light

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hey Sherri,

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Dave you make me smile. Master of love hehe

I agree that if somebody closes the door to communication it says something about the person; but what, I couldn't say. Giving my professional opinion I could only say that a sense of a need to retain a safe space for one's self is usually the reason that a reasonable person will make such a choice, as long as this option is available to them.

This is an online community! In our day to day lives we may not have an option to lock off incoming inflow that we don't like, but we can here! People might just be utilising their right to this choice. This would be my guess… and as this is an informal space, I don't expect to be held accountable for it lol

I'm also thinking of the volume of other 'stuff' that all of us are coping with in day to day life, some much more than others since our substantive work might involve dealing with some of the rough and hardness of this reality, and to feel obligated to fending off less important [in one's scheme of things] situations seems like a lot to ask as well, if your health and its management are important to you. It's [simply] a question of priorities, IMO.

But that's speculation and not necessarily a solution.

As long as Andrew's at peace with his offerings, things should be great, irrespective of GAIA choices. Those who love him will follow him wherever he goes, that's for certain.

All the best to all,

Sherrilene

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Ooh, I'd like to add that I have myself felt the absolute need to delete 'friends' for highly offensive statements and actions to me, not just on GAIA but elsewhere.

I have also been 'hunted' to comment on subjects that I didn't want to be a part of anymore because it went against my intention. It truly did feel like harassment actually. It took a lot of effort to say, quietly, 'this is my belief and my choice…' and that eventually shut things off. But I am certain the uncertainty remained on the other persons' side.

I didn't have the answers that they wanted and I still don't but I feel that far less harm was done by walking away and preserving my sanity than pursuing a subject that was simply not going anywhere useful.

Sherri

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Once upon a time in a far off land lived a beautiful maiden called Cinderalla. Being a fairytale the king had just been deposed without bloodshed by a distant relative of the servants of the kings household and there was much happiness and celebration in the land.

The village idiot a very handsome but misunderstood soul saw the celebrating but as he had only recently arrived from a land where he'd been released from an asylum, couldn't understand what the fuss was about and indiscreetly suggested that though a bloodless change of kingship was a good thing, wasn't the real work for the new king still ahead?

Cinderalla thought the village idiot was a party pooper and refused to talk to him.  Her 2 sisters followed suite in the days following. 

This perplexed the village idiot because from the time of his arrival in the kingdom he hadn't had a crossed word with any of the 3 sisters and saw them as friends and teachers.

After a few days Cinderalla had compassion on the village idiot and started to talk to him again, but the 2 sisters steadfastly refused to have anything to do with the village idiot.

The village idiot was a bit outspoken about this because he wanted to know why he was being treated this way by the 2 sisters, but to this day it remains a mystery to him.

A little while later the village idiot got into an argument with yet another of Cinderallas sisters who then refused to talk to him.  But this time he had an inkling as to why. He thought the argument was seen as a bit one sided but accepted his punishment.

A short time before the village idiot had been admitted to the holy order of those who waited on tables in the kingdom, to which Cinderalla and her brothers and sisters belonged.  But as a result of this argument he was thrown back into the street by the Fairy Godmother.

The village idiot didn't know to keep his mouth shut, but was outspoken about having the silent treatment from the 2 sisters.

Many of those of the holy order of waiting on tables considered that the village idiot must have had an idea why certain of their order refused to talk to the village idiot because it was unthinkable that any of there class would treat another in this way.

Because the village idiot created such a fuss about not knowing why he was treated this way the Fairy Godmother warned the village idiot that unless he held his tongue and stopped talking about his treatment he would be banished from the kingdom.

And with the passing of time the village idiot discovered when he tried to send greetings and salutations to Cinderalla that she had decided she didn't want to talk to the village idiot any more.  This left the village idiot even more confused as he hadn't talked to Cinderalla for a l-o-n-g time.

The village idiot was starting to feel pleased that he wasn't waiting on tables anymore because he didn't want to be associated with uncaring people that turned their backs on others without having the manners to excuse themselves.

The village idiot wondered if this would ever end.  Even in his twisted mind it didn't seem logical that though the kingdom wanted to share peace and love across the land, it would condone such divisive behaviour

Will the village idiot be banished from the kingdom???

Nobody knows for sure…

The End



“To retire is not to flee, and there is no wisdom waiting when danger outweighs hope, and it is the part of wise men to preserve themselves today for tomorrow, and not risk all in one day.”  - Cervantes

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Sherri,

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Fortunately Dave you are representative of the vast majority of ambassadors.

Why would someone want to be an ambassador yet not communicate?

I wouldn't have thought the title was a status symbol but I could be wrong.

I've worked with people that have had titles but not been prepared to recognise the responsibility that goes with the privelege. In the long term they've proved to be a waste of space and a liability.

You live and learn.

an eccentric Aussie

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Dave & Andrew

My suggestion is not to quit talking to someone because you do not like the way a person speaks. But if someone is offensive, I feel I have the right to end communications. 

I am really sensitive to how I impact persons with my presence in their space. It's just a matter of respect, in my opinion. I never desire to feel like I am imposing; I'd like to feel welcomed.

If I am not, I need to move on!

Now the rules are a little blurred in Online Community… so I think it should come down to consensus by the membership, about what might be considered appropriate. This is only an opinion, and something that I would apply if I were in charge of the community. But I am still one member only…

I truly don't feel any guilt for moving on to secure my 'sanity' and what I feel in my heart I have the power to handle/manage, given the constraints in my personal life. I have 'entertained' many persons that ultimately just wanted the last word on a matter, and this drained me so much… and to what good? Not my wellbeing, certainly; I got completely worn down! There was no consideration for the wear and tear on my system… yes, some of us are delicate :D But their ego was pleasantly rubbed in the exchange!

If not for this personal experience, I would not endorse a person taking such action according to their best judgment… nor ask others to just simply let it go… Is it quite worth it, seriously?

With regards to the greater good in this event we refer to, maybe we're all learning, about personal space, respect of self and others and what good community is all about. I suspect this lesson is in progress right now.

Peace and greater harmony to all brothers.

Sherrilene

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hi Sherri,

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

I have no disagreement with you Sherrilene, but something that has been niggling me about this since election night.

After it was declared Obama had I made the comment

That's the easy bit out of the way.

The real work now begins….

I was challenged, I responded, you agreed with my initial response…

I act as an outside observer myself and am very familiar with U.S. culture [family, friends, self connected or resident there].

Yes, this is a big event… Unity has not been the order of the day for a really long time. This has worn down so many of the people who aren't inclined to fighting and competing with their neighbours and so on. So many wounded spirits…

Healing is in order first; acceptance of a different path will take some time and then it will be time for creative problem solving to begin. Yes, the hard work must begin; this is why positive energy and support is paramount for our American brothers and sisters right now.

Purest love and light is coming your way, friends. Rest on my support, whatever.

Best to all, Sherri

I was blocked, accused of being a wet blanket etc etc.

Not a word was said to or about your contribution…

Each time I've said something that has got me into trouble, I've been agreed with or seconded if you like, yet I've been dealt with and the other person hasn't rated a mention.

Are you picking up yet why I'm confused?

All I've asked for is an explanation. 

Osmosis is not one of my strengths.

Others have said things at times deliberately and far more inflammatory than I, yet that seems to be okay.

Is it an unreasonable request to be told why I seem to be singled out?

Peace

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

Hey Andrew buddy,

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

This thread has been about exactly that Dave.

this thread is about trying to help others who may be blocked in the future, to have some kind of transparency, or at least certainty about why they were blocked.

And I certainly wasn't picking on Sherri.  She was there agreeing with me that was all.  EVERBODY that has commented in favour of those that have blocked me have said or inferred I should know why I was blocked.

What you've pointed out there Dave is news to me.

at this time in your Gaia life, you carry a label of challenge (before the blocking issue), that has left you with little leeway on negative communications, whereas other members have more leeway.

That has been the major sticking point in my understanding.

I didn't understand why I was being discriminated against.

I appreciate your enlightening me about this Dave it is just a pity someone didn't tell me 3 months ago before I was first blocked.

Being given the position of ambassador gave me the false impression I'd been doing the right thing, that I was acceptable as a person. I had no idea I was a serious challenge to some, other than in a lighthearted way.

I haven't wasted my time on this thread but I was hoping along the way to determine the issue to be able to do something about it

If being true to myself, saying what I think, in love and standing up for what I believe means I'm a challenge then I expect I'll be asked to leave.

I sincerely appreciate your assistance, support and now revealing what the problem is (and has been all along).

It's the person I am that some have found challenging Dave, and that's not about to change.

Peace

Andrew

Re: Warning... No misunderstanding...

One thing I meant to ask Dave, what you said about-

the alternative would be to target them until they are gone once and for all.. and believe me, there are people who would do that.

Irrespective of how tempting it is I'm not going to intentionally provoke anyone to such a cowardly, hateful, pathetic, stupid, irresponsible, atrocious, brain dead action, I wont.

But that sort of behaviour wouldn't be condoned by Siona or the Team so if someone did behave in that manner, they'd be censured anyway wouldn't they?

Curious

Andrew