To all my connection people: I wanted to go public with this!!!

Over the last couple of days, I've been reading numerous articles from my connections and have seen the frustrations, excitement and uncertainty regarding Gather politics and connection dilemmas.  Therefore, I wanted to go public and share with my connections and the Gather community my feelings on this subject matter.

First, I fully understand what some of you mentioned about the drive-bys, people asking for your invite and never once commenting on your material, and whether or not you have offended some.  My answer to this is @#$% happens.  You're not going to please everyone.  There will always be a few who are not going to fancy your style.  But if you weigh the good with the bad, I bet the good fares much better.

My experience since joining on Jan 17^th, 2007 has been nothing short of sheer fun. I'll admit I had to drop a few connections because I would always comment on their material yet they never once had the courtesy to give me a read.  I also make it a habit to stay away from the fighting and politics which usually ends up in an exchange of nasty comments.  But overall, it has been exceptionally well for my inspiration as a writer.

I love reading and writing fiction.  When I initially joined I wanted to read other peoples attempts at drafting up fine pieces of fiction.  This inspired me to share my work.  Before joining, I was averaging a couple of chapters a week on my second Novel.  Now that I have been on for three months, I have managed to write 7 short stories and it's all because of my connections and others who have passed by and written inspiring words which only motivated me more.  Yes, my novel has been neglected but hey, I'm a gather addict in recovery with the GA meetings and a sponsor to help.

So, the reason for this article is to personally thank all of you who have helped me to believe in myself and motivated me to continue with this sometimes lonely craft.  And to those of you who have not had the chance to read an article or two from some fine professionals here on gather, who respect the rules of engagement, I say give them a try.  Just go to my people at my site and click view all and scroll down my list of connections, you will see some wonderful people attached to those icons.     

I have had the honor to be connected with so many true writers.  You all know who you are.  I really appreciate all you have done for me thus far, sharing our love for the written word.  As I begin my fourth month on Gather, I look forward to many more connection moments together.  I know you have enjoyed my new group Gather Anonymous but honestly friends, I have become so addicted.  I mean just today I took a sick day to be home writing, commenting, and reading of which many of you can attest to, seeing my comments from your articles earlier.

Concluding, I wanted to share this with the general community here on Gather to let everyone know, if you treat your connections with dignity, respect, and above all compromise and sharing, you will reap the rewards which can only be summed up as true enjoyment and continuous inspiration for writing from some true friends and colleagues.

Warmest regards to all my connections,

Charles D.