GATHER is quite the experience...you must agree. People from all walks of life coming together to share parts of themselves with one another; their life, their family, their interests...strangers meeting and becoming friends...acquaintances who were once lost being found again...'neighbors' greeting those who live nearby and around the world. We all have come for various reasons. There are those who write...stories, poetry, history, education and more, covering topics wide and varied. The photographers and videographers focus their lenses so we can see things we may never encounter if not for the images as seen through their eyes. People sign on seeking friends, companionship and conversation. There are those who are here simply to collect all they can for free...gift cards, cash and prizes. We all have a reason...we all have a purpose. There's no right way or wrong way to GATHER. The key is participation...being part of an on line community...sharing and caring.
Thousands have arrived over the few years of GATHER's existence. The length of membership ranges from the 'old timers' who have been here for awhile since way back when to those who have just discovered the experience and joined today. There's room for everyone and everything. We all have different tastes liking certain things while not caring for others. The great thing is we're all free to pick and choose with everyone being 'rewarded for our participation'; some more than others, depending on the amount of time spent here and the actions taken. Feedback in any form is always welcome; whether viewing what has been presented, sharing your own ideas or leaving a comment on the works of others. GATHER always likes to hear how they're doing; how to improve the experience for the enjoyment of all involved.
There have been many changes since Day 1...and we'll see more as time goes by; not only with GATHER itself, but with all of us, as well, as our horizons continue to expand and move forward. People come and go; some being here for only a short time, while others remain for the long haul. I've seen many things here over the time I've spent on GATHER. I've learned much from all of you and hope maybe someone has learned a little from me. I've met friends who I want to keep in my life forever, as many of you have, too. When I've stumbled; others have steadied me; lending an arm to lean on...a shoulder to cry on When I've fallen, you've been there to lift me up, dust me off and help me move on. In times of celebration; I've been joined in cheers and laughter...the happiness abounds.
GATHER has been a big part of my life for quite some time...for over three years now. I came to Gather on June 9th, 2006 at the request of my best friend; not only to check out what he posted, but to see if I had it in myself to be able to share what others might be interested in, too. The results have been beyond my wildest expectations. I never thought I could be successful...but it happened...and I have all of you to thank for that...members and GATHER staff alike. GATHER has become a home away from home for me; a part of my life I enjoy daily. GATHER has given me much...and I like to return the favor giving back whatever I can. I hope the same rule of thumb holds true for you, too.
Recently, I was cruising the halls of GATHER and ran across a post...about GATHER...from another member. I decided to 'steal' the article; a set of questions...or survey if you will...to give my personal take on things. I invite any and all of you to help yourself and do the same. We all like to hear what's on other minds; what your ideas and opinions are. Feel free to copy the questions, fill in your answers and share with all of us. Your thoughts are just as important as mine. I'm sure GATHER would like to hear feedback as to what's going through your head...what you think of your experience here. Here's the way I see things...
1. Do you write more than you comment or do you comment more than you write? When I first began on GATHER, I would post a couple articles a day. Taking an hour or two to create each of my 'stories'; that became too time consuming. (Though it's not much of one, I do have a life outside of GATHER.) I scaled back and began sharing once a day. Since a health 'crisis' last year, my outside life was curtailed greatly to the point I don't have much inspiration or many ideas to write about. Now, I write sometimes only three or four posts a week; sometimes, nothing at all. I tend to comment more, but not on everything. There are some topics I know nothing about and don't have anything of value to add. At times, I'll simply try to interject a bit of humor to maybe make someone smile or even laugh out loud. With so many connections (around 1,000), there's no way I can comment on everything without turning my experience into a full time job...even with the slow down in the amount being shared. Those who are in my network still publish quite a few hundred posts every day. While I may not leave a comment on each one; I open them all, so whatever my connections post will at least get a page view.
2. What would you do if the GATHER site were, for some reason, to shut down? I would be very sad since GATHER has become a part of my daily routine. I begin every day with GATHER...having my morning coffee and checking what others have shared since I went to bed the night before. I log onto GATHER several times throughout the day and night to keep on top of what others have posted. I always take one last look before I retire for the night, too. I enjoy visiting with friends I've made and would hope we'd at least get a little advance warning that GATHER would be going down so I could make sure I had a way to contact, outside the site, those I've grown fond of. It would definitely leave a void in my life I know I couldn't fill elsewhere. I know I probably wouldn't seek out another site since there are no others quite like GATHER.
3. What was the highest amount you cashed out for on GATHER? My first cash out was for $500 back when GATHER was still sending out checks...pre-PayPal...when you had to earn the cash option by garnering 3,000 points in one calendar month. I never opted for the gift cards. The cash could be spent anywhere on anything...for bills, buying groceries, going out to party...whatever I wanted to use it on. I still opt for the money in my pocket to put food in my mouth. Since my first cash out, I stockpile those points and only redeem in multiples of one hundred. The smallest 'reward for participation' I've cashed out for has been $200. That doesn't count the prizes I've won here over the past.
4. What do you think about GATHER now compared to when you first got here? I've seen many, many changes take place, as well as a multitude of people come and go. GATHER has evolved from a 'writer's site' to a 'social network' now. I liked GATHER then...and I still like GATHER now. There were a lot more actual articles back in the day and not so many small 'blurbs' or 'fluff' pieces, but I can still find posts shared that contain something that catches my eye. Change is inevitable and you either go with the flow or you abandon ship, like so many have already done. Just by the fact that I'm still here should tell you I still enjoy my experience on this site I think very highly of GATHER. I've joined...and dumped...other sites, because they don't measure up to GATHER. GATHER set the standard and I've found no other sites that even comes close. As long as GATHER is here; you'll find me here, too.
5. When do you think is the worst time to post on GATHER? There is no such thing as a 'worst' time to share here. There may be slow times, but if you have a 'following' and share something of interest; people will find you and what you've posted no matter what time of the day or night you publish...hours, even days, later...sometimes weeks or months down the road. I prefer to post in the morning so the majority of the members have all day to find what I've shared. Even with those who have published after midnight; your publication notifications are in my personal E-mail box so I can take a look at what has been posted. It might not be immediately after you've published, but rest assured; I will get to checking out what you've posted within a matter of hours.
6. Have you ever thought about quitting GATHER? During my first year, I took a break for a couple of months contemplating what to do as there were those who didn't want me here. Jealousy was rearing its ugly head and some of the original members were green with envy over me. They were 'real writers', as they called themselves; 'professionals' who had been published. I had never written before in my life. I was accused of taking 'their' money; what they had been promised for writing on GATHER. It's not my fault people liked my writing more than theirs. A group of the original members began ganging up on me and E-mail threats started coming in. I laid low for awhile and caved in to their demands of not writing. Once things calmed down after a few months; I started once again. Funny thing, too...they're pretty much gone now...and I'm still here! I guess they weren't as hot as they thought they were. I'm not the greatest in the world, but I'm way more successful than they were; at least on GATHER.
7. Did you ever rate an article lower than '10'? I sure have! I actually should rate many more lower than '10'. I know none of what I've shared is perfect and not deserving of the highest rating allowed...and I've seen only a few posts shared by others worthy of that score. It kills me that I'll spend some time and thought in creating a post I try to make intelligent, interesting, entertaining or humorous; only to find 'articles' consisting of two sentences or one simple question that were slapped together in less than a minute with little thought having the highest score. Alright, give them a '10' because none of the three letter words used were misspelled, but they sure don't deserve to be rated as perfection. I also don't care for the Drive By '1's'. I know damn well my work is at least average and deserves a '5' or better Because posts aren't rated honestly and because of those spiteful '1' ratings, I really don't hold any credibility in the rating system. All it takes is someone with a bug up their butt to drag something worthwhile down. I've had trolls stalk my work here and rate everything I've shared a '1'. Since ratings mean nothing here anymore, the system has played itself out and it's time to get rid of ratings altogether. Many times, I don't even bother rating anymore since it serves no purpose.
8. How do you think GATHER could improve its site? I'm not in charge, so I only have ideas based on what I've seen and experienced over the years. Some, people would like...others, they'd despise. I think much of what GATHER offers is fine the way it is. Some good improvements have come about...some, not so hot. A lot is by trial and error trying to improve the site and make it a better experience for all. GATHER makes changes they think will benefit the majority of the members. It's some of the members that drag things down. Though GATHER has a small staff, they really need to police the site...for a variety of reasons...especially because 'rewards' are being handed out for content that doesn't deserve to be rewarded...or at least change the way 'rewards' are given. Original work should be given more credit than something 'lifted' from someone else, cut and paste E-mails, one sentence posts versus several paragraphs, etc. You'll always find those who 'scam the system' looking for everything they can get with little or no effort, while those who honestly work for their 'rewards' are given less because they have a conscience and take pride in their efforts. I have a whole list of improvements I'd make if I was in charge...but I'm not...so it's not my call to make until I get that corner suite on the top floor of Gatherlande.
9. Have you ever flagged an article? Just as I have rated a few posts lower than '10', I have also flagged a few posts, as well. One in particular that comes to mind is when I saw a picture shared by a member...and a couple hours later, I saw the same picture on another site shared by the person that actually took the photo. I reported 'copyright infringement'...and nothing was done...on that picture, and others the member blatantly stole and claimed to be their own. The flag was lifted and the pictures were allowed to remain while the member continued to 'make money' off the work of someone else...and still does. It just seemed like encouragement for this member to continue doing the same thing and for others to follow in their footsteps. I no longer bother at all...not my problem...not my site.
10. What is your response if you see something you don't like? If it's something I'm not interested in, I simply don't bother looking at whatever it is. If it's something I disagree with, I'll either express my opinion (if I know the person can honestly handle it), or just bite my tongue (fingers), not say anything and just let it go. I have way too much to deal with in my own life than to dwell on something in the life of someone else I have no control over.
11. What is the thing you dislike the most about GATHER? There are several things I don't care for here, but the one I dislike the most are the posts that lack relevance. I realize GATHER has gone from a 'writer's site' to a 'social network', but I see no value to 'Good morning, GATHER. I'm having toast for breakfast. What are you having?' or 'I'm tired. I think I'm going to bed now.' If it was in a conversation with someone in my own household; that would be one thing. From someone I don't know and more than likely will never, ever meet...I really don't care. Again, that type of post being given just as much credit as something worthy and thought out. With all the time I have on my hands, if I didn't at least take a little pride in what I share, I could publish 100 or more of those type of posts every day...and make tons of points.
12. Is your aim on GATHER to get all the points you can? As touched upon above; obviously not! Sure, I like getting points and want as many as I can earn legitimately. If points were my main goal; and I sure could use the extra cash; I'd be flooding GATHER with tons of games, questions, quotes, cut and paste E-mails and everything else I could find that lacks content and credibility in the line of intelligence. I'm not a genius (though close), but I like to use my brain and share things worthwhile I created myself that may cause some type of reaction in those who view. The points are a bonus to making people at least think or to bringing a smile and a little happiness into their life. Some here are just greedy and want all they can get for nothing. I know some supplement their income with what they receive from GATHER, but I'm not one looking to 'get rich quick' without earning the rewards I'm given.
13. Did you ever meet anyone from GATHER? So far, I've met two people from GATHER. 
The first. Arleen, from the Rochester, New York area where I live, has visited several times; even including me in a birthday celebration meal at a nearby restaurant for her middle son. Ian, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, stopped by and spent the night once while on a trip down to Washington, D.C. Both can also atest to the fact that I did, indeed, lose my right leg, contrary to a couple GATHER members who have accused me of making up the story to play on the hearts of others in an attempt to scam people for whatever I could get through sympathy. I ask nothing of others besides friendship...nothing else required. I've also talked to several by telephone, especially when I was in the hospital going through my amputation ordeal, though we have never met face to face.
14. Would you like to meet, in person, more people on GATHER? There are several I've grown quite fond of over the time I've spent here and really would like to get together with someday. I've had a couple that have even invited me to come to their homes for holidays or vacation. Unfortunately, not having the money since my 'mishap', I've been unable to afford to travel to where they live. There are so many I'd like to get together with to give a hug to and thank for their friendship...the list is long. I don't mean to slight anyone, but there are some who stand out and are at the top of my list. 
'Mom' Elsie Duggan is #1. This gal has been there as a friend since the very start...and she's my 'Naked Twister' partner, too. 
GATHER's food guru gal, 'Aunty' Shannon W. (and her whole clan...the family and fur babies) is next. That could be very dangerous if we ever got together. The world wouldn't be the same. 
Rob L. and I plan on getting together someday. There's more interest there than just friendship. Sue S., Esther the Molester, Audrey F. and Lori Cee are a couple more...and the list goes on and on and on; just too lengthy to include all the names. There are folks from coast to coast who have been kind to me and helped me out in one way or another during my trying times. It would be nice to thank them in person and spend some time with them, too. Some I would have liked to meet are no longer here. I'm sure there will be a few new members that come along I'd add to that list, as well.
15. What do you think you ought to spend more time doing on GATHER? If only I had the time...like 48 hours to a day. Maybe I should comment a little more, but I really should write more...if only I had experiences to write about. People tell me I should work on a book; something I don't even know how to do seeing how I don't even consider myself a writer. Attempting that, I would have much less time to spend on GATHER...and there's no saying people would even want to buy or read it anyway. It could be a total flop. At least by doing what I do now, I know I'll have a little success...which is better than having none at all.
16. How do you get the ideas for your articles? For the most part, what I share comes from real life experiences...things I've done, what I've gone through, events I've shared with the few people I know. Not having the resources to be able to do much or go anywhere or a way to get around and travel, I'm very limited as to what I can experience...thus, my reason for not writing as much anymore since I don't have much to write about. I try to come up with ideas, but most of the time, they're simply not there. I can only tell so many tales about sitting around doing nothing or about my cat. By not being a writer, I really don't know what else to do.
17. Do you think one day you'll be discovered and be an overnight sensation when your work is published? That's never going to happen. I have the slightest idea how to go about even being read other than by members of GATHER. You can't be discovered if no one even knows you exist. If, by some miracle, I was 'found'; I wouldn't even know what to write. It's not like I'm an expert in any field. I'm surely not one who would become an instant success. I'm amazed at how many read my works here in the first place. I can't see myself coming out with anything that would have mass appeal. I'd probably have better luck being hit by a meteor. Now, THAT would be something to write about...if I survived.
18. Do you think others here have a chance of being professional writers if they aren't already? I know there are some published authors here that have already become professional writers by the fact they've written works that have been printed; whether full length books or freelance articles...poetry, too. I don't read everything published on GATHER because I'm not only not a writer; I'm not a reader, either. I can do short articles, but books bore me...simply too long and I lose interest. From lots of what I see here, especially those one sentence posts; most don't stand a chance...and that's not what they're going for anyway. Most are simply here to share and be a part of the GATHER experience...and that's as far as they want to go.
19. Has GATHER changed your life? It most certainly has...in several ways...and for the better. I now have the confidence to at least try to write. I've been able to open up more about myself rather than to hold everything in and live in secrecy. I've 'met' people I've found out like me simply for who I am; not what I am, what I have and what I do. Also, through the generosity of others, I've been able to live a little easier and make it to a new day. I've become less cynical knowing there are people out there who honestly care about their fellow man and expect nothing in return. I've learned to let my defenses down and let others in, whereas before, I would build a wall so high; no one ever stood a chance at getting inside. I do have to say GATHER has helped me become a better person through my many experiences here with so many other people. GATHER and its members have made a difference in me being able to survive and go on with life.
20. Was it your life dream to become a writer? I never thought about being a writer in all the years before I came to GATHER. I still don't think about becoming a writer. I started participating on GATHER simply to find out if I'm capable of writing. Since my beginning, I've discovered I'm more of what I call a story teller than a writer. I share my tales through words I put down on paper or, in this case, on the computer. (I've actually figured out how to put those words directly on the computer rather than writing everything out long-hand first and then typing them out on the screen. I've also learned how to save what I'm sharing so it doesn't get lost and disappears forever through a glitch...the reason I used to write everything out by hand because I was afraid of losing the hard work I just did.)
There you go...some of my thoughts and opinions on GATHER as inspired by someone else with their questions. Again, I invite you to do the same. Copy the questions and give your answers...either here in the comment thread or by creating your own article. I know the 'powers that be' at GATHER occasionally seek out opinions on their own. I don't know if any of those in charge will see what you or I have to say, but we've put our thoughts out there in case that possibility arises. At least our fellow members will know where we're coming from...if they happen to read what we've answered. If nothing else, maybe our words will help other members out in understanding what GATHER is all about...and what possibilities exist here. That's what it's all about. Keep on posting and remember to always try and enjoy...'The GATHER Experience'.
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Comments: 90
Yay Gather !!!
Gack! You just had to include a pic of me didn't you? What a nood.
A great post. I coment much more than I post. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful post.
I know how you feel, I've made some great Gather pals. Of course, you, Loooooori C., Marianne M., Lynn A., Sue *, etc.
While away, I did think about this place a lot. I know I would miss it if it wasn't part of my life anymore. It's been almost three years! I can't believe I missed your Gatherversary, by the way. Congrats on that, of course.
I have been here nearly three years as well.
Hi Rob......
some share lots and lots about their lives.......
mine is way too boring......
I have met one Gatherer, she's from Nebr... and just sent her son off to the ARMY......
Because posts aren't rated honestly and because of those spiteful '1' ratings, I really don't hold any credibility in the rating system. "
And your current rating is a prime example. Pathetic trolls.
I am going to pleed the 5th on of I've flagged anything ever...still a sore subject upstairs......
Another interesting post, Rob! I always enjoy reading your articles, they make me think (something I don't do enough of).......I am glad you are here and glad you are staying!
and I always give away 10 ratings.......
well unless you work for G..........
This is great, Rob. You're definitely one of the old timers here. Congrats on reaching 3 years.
my name is up there. (giggle.)
giggles
Thanks again for posting a great article. I love reading your insight. You very eloquently described gather!
Interesting as always
Well siad! I always enjoy your posts here on Gather!
Oops! said!
Great answers to all of those. It was an interesting read, and much more interesting and in-depth than my own version that I just posted.
Gather is a great place.
Kudos to you, I guess, and other giggles at times
Long live Rob!
OHH Rob you rock except for the list of folks to meet, BOO HOO iam am not on that kist better get my butty in gear and send them cookies,,,,
I love how you do these thing,, you rock
Great post Rob. I don't think I will be doing this one anytime soon.
I no longer even look at the ratings. As someone told me they are really meaningless. The drive-bys, the disgruntled, the intolerant. I am not here for points, but they are nice. I have 2308. Makes me kinda feel good. I am tolerant of those here for points. They need the money and mostly stay together.
What I dislike is the name calling, the hateful responses, and the intolerance. I have never deleted a comment.
Rob, you are someone I like andI always read what you write. You are a fine writer.
I have become mildly addicted to Gather. I am retired and alone, and Gather gives me one more activity. I no longer read nine hours a day. I write and read and learn, and enjoy the company. I've been a member for about five months and have learned much from others. I have found many interesting people here.
Yayyy Rob. I love your take on things.
I certainly enjoy the varied comments and articles I find here.
I love Gather! Writing, reading, posting pics, points, the peope here, everything!
Esther the Molester, lol. I would like to meet her someday too!
Rob, I think you just wrote your first book, lol. I have to admit if this was anyone else with this long of a post I would not have read it. But, I have to read yours cause I always need a laugh and you always deliver one.
I too, don't care for the posts that just say good morning or good night, or I ate toast for breakfast. But, I guess if you are not a writer then that is their way of communicating with gather world. I mostly stick with pictures or photo essays, because I am not a good writer and it takes me too long to put my thoughts into a post. But, I am sure they probably bore you and most of gather. So I just post my pictures and hope that there are some people on gather that enjoy looking at them.
Exceptional piece, Rob....but then again I always enjoy what you write!!
Great post Rob. i dont care about rateings and i do have a flag finger. :)
Yay, Rob!!!
Another well-written piece, Rob. You have the rare ability to write about anything ... and make it interesting! I always look forward to your work, and your comments!!
I also look forward to your posts...they are so detailed and interesting...
Somehow I think you could whip off a book in no time if you put your mind to it LOL
Well, you sure did write about the Gather Experience, much as I see it too, thank you for chosing me as someone you would like to meet, the feeling is very mutual as you well know. I love to read what you write, because you always put such spirit into it, never just a dull piece. You put up that picture of me that was taken Jan. 1, 2007, I have three newer ones up, used this as an icon for awhile , how did you find it? lol, When my life settles down here, I might just do this piece, I have put your picture up lots of times, but always in the hammock, love that one. Take care of yourself Rob,so glad to see another piece from you. love, Elsie
I too love Gather and my world would be empty without this wonderful site. You have so eloquently expressed everything about this place much better than I ever could.
Thank you for including me on your list of people you would like to meet. You are at the top of my list too honey.
I love you Rob!
Just so everyone knows, there are MANY on Gather I enjoy; not just a small handful. I wish I had the means to get together and meet many of you. Also, I don't always leave a comment, especially if other have covered what I would have said, but for the most part, I DO check out everything those in my network share...and that's a lot of posts each day. I just wished America was a smaller country so we ALL could get together a schmooze. There's so many I care about from coast to coast...and I didn't mean to slight anyone. If I listed you all, this post would go on and on for days. It would be like a Gather roll call. You all are a big part of my life and I wouldn't want to go on without you. We've lost many members over time with new ones coming along to take their places. We 'old timers' have seen many changes come to Gather in the past few years...and they still can't figure out a way to get rid of us. You know we enjoy this site with our longevity here. We're like 'bad pennies' you just can't get rid of. I'm sure in some mighty fine company and am glad you're all a part of my life. I wouldn't want it any other way.
awe your so sweet... I always knew you were
Me either Rob, sticking it out, thick and thin, dancing and twisting all the way, lol.
Rob,
Wonderful post as always. I just can't imagine Gather without you or Shannon W. I have so many friends on here. I would miss them terribly if Gather would disappear. :(
I'm glad you separated this into a post. I enjoyed reading your comments. I don't always catch your posts, but the ones I do manage to catch, I always enjoy!
Nice write up eventhough I hate these poll type things.
Wow Rob I'm so impressed on your writing ... been scanning threw your post and have been quite shocked
This is a very thoughtful post Rob, I am glad you decided to stick around. Wow, 2006 sure is a long time ago. Like you Gather has become part of my daily life, and I really don't know what I would do, if this community would get lost in cyberspace.
gotta love gather
I'm spinning my wheels around here right now, trying to keep up with reading the things I want to read (like this) and having a real life too. I've found a bunch of old high school friends on Facebook, and the past 6 weeks or so have been a whirlwind of emails and phone calls as so many of us hadn't kept in touch for over 30 years. I also started taking a writing class this week (something I would never have done before Gather). I think you wrote this very well. I agree with much of what you have said. We started here at about the same time, and I think Gather really filled a void for both of us. It certainly is different than it was, and many people have come and gone...but, I'm still here too.
Maybe we will meet in person one of these days. You never know!
I've met some folk I liked, read some folk I liked and would like to meet, and try to stay away from drama and point hogs............ Gather has done much for me, as a mostly stay at home, avid reader.
I would like to meet some of my connections eventually. There are some really cool people on Gather.
With the changes in the point system that were just announced, it should be interesting to see how things shape up in terms of the quality of the content on here. I am hoping that the changes will greatly benefit those who do obviously put a lot of time and effort into developing pieces.
Hi Rob,
If anyone is going to be in Pittsburgh mid Aug they may want to come to our 2nd Pittsburgh Gathering. I will be posting a sign up group soon with some dates and other info soon. Last year we had over 25 people so hopefully we can double that this year.
Great article
Yeppers, gotta love Gather~ =)
So, Rob, can I crash on your couch sometime?
I'm sure kitty will let you use her 'day bed'. She's got her overnight sleeper make under my bed...by opening a cardboard box under there and dragging towels out to have something soft to sleep on...unless you want to sleep under there instead of the couch. Hell, I have a king size bed and there's lots of room for two. I don't bite and I promise no funny stuff. You're the wrong 'flavor'...LMAO!!!
*SNORKS*! =~P
Great article and once again, the times they are a changin'!
Really good, and very thourough article! 10 for you, even though you don't care for the rating system.
Thanks also for commenting on my article.
Rob, this is awesome, and is exactly how I feel about my gather experience. You also are a big part of my life and you are such an inspiration to me; I find myself saying that if Rob can get through what he has gone through I can get through my trivial little stuff.
This is really cool. It sure makes me think too about how I've spent my time on Gather and how that's changed or not changed as time goes by.
Gather sometimes makes me happy but sometimes makes me incredibly angry. I've never cashed out - that's not what it's about for me.
Rob, I really enjoyed your article, I have always told everyone since I joined. I am not a writer. Hated Literature. But love people and making friends. That is my reason for joining Gather. The reason I choose you as a friend, was your complete and open honesty.
I love your answer to #6 . There is room for everyone on Gather. I love reading Elsie's poetry . Some of my friends are great writers, may be published one day. We are crossing our fingers. But , please forgive, the ones who think THEY are great writers are the ones wanting us non professionals off gather. I always gave them a ten, said nice things. But actually their work stunk.
aw don't say you are not a writer because you are........your post are always excellent and keep ones attention........yep...you could write a book...... i just bet you could write and interesting article about a dust bunnie.......
I love Gather too, for the same reasons you and everyone else has presented. And I always enjoy everything you write. When I get moved to town I will have more rapid because my system is so slow. Rob you have belonged to Gather exactly one month longer than I have.
"contrary to a couple GATHER members who have accused me of making up the story to play on the hearts of others in an attempt to scam people for whatever I could get through sympathy. "
Who the hell would do such a stupid thing????? I can think of a few, but it doesnt excuse the fact its stupid!!!!! good article Rob...
You put a lot of thought into that - good job. I enjoy my experience here very much. I don't write much but I have learned how to do digital!
Great post, Rob. Gather has become part of my life too. It's all good if you let it be.
I often smile about your flip comments on my friends post. You don't come to see me often, but that's fine, but you have once or twice at least:). I still like to drop in on you once in a while anyway.
Let's hope gather continues to thrive. BTW someone suspecting you of making up stories - that has to be the lowest of all.
Hope you had a good weekend! See ya around gather, Rob.
Rose is one of my favorite members. She is always so sweet.
Rob is funny as all get out isn't he. :)
I really enjoyed this post. I feel like I have gotten to know you a bit better and we share some of the same views on some of these questions.
I like your answer to question 4. It's kind of how I feel about Gather.
I stopped rating too. I hardly even notice the stars anymore and have started taking advantage of the other features on that same line, like sharing on Facebook and Twitter (neither of which I actually understand).
I always love reading what you have to say. Rarely does anyone else compare when it comes to detail!
You are amazing! I feel like I really know you. I enjoyed reading each and every word that you wrote. Many points I agree on others are borderline.
I joined Gather on a whim...got some extra points on My Points if i joined. I thought "what the heck." It didn't take too long to be "hooked." I am on Gather almost every day. I have made some amazing friends and hope some day to meet some of them.
You are a gem...don't you EVER leave Gather!!!
Hi Rob - Long time no chat - How ya doing?
You need to write something new Rob, need to know how things are going with you, take care of yourself.
If the points on Gather pick up, I may writing a little more often. At the rate they're coming in now, spending a couple hours creating a post hardly seems worth the effort for 1 point an hour. I'm not going to be buying much with the penny I earn...except maybe a gumball.
... this was a way to long article ... even for u Rob ... you could have cut it into eight different segments & gathered more points ...
i think ?!?
Rob, I do wish you would post more. Every post doesn't have to be so involved or perfect. You're funny and I love reading your articles. When I see there's a new article, from you, it's like receiving my latest episode of "Garden and Gun."(Hey...don't know it till you've tried it.) I just can't wait to sit down and start reading.
Anyway, thanks for playing family fued tonight. You got all the snwers right except the city where something is going on 24/7. The correct answer was NYC.
Have a good weekend!
Good post, Rob,
As another of the almost three-year people on here, there have been a lot of changes and some are positive, others were just the 'wait and see' kind.
This is just another change that the site's going through, I think,
Marilyn
I have been here a long time also and have watched many changes occur some good and some not so good for me. I'm sure many more changes are ahead.
Hey Rob...it's time for a new article.
I didn't read this earlier as 'my' Gather experience has been through so many ups and downs I didn't want to come in and 'burst' everyone's (especially your) happy place bubble. I like it here and still come every day, but not with the enthusiasm I've had in the past, and that's not just from the recent point changes either. I've found myself growing bored with the site for a few months now. First it was all the whining, then all the drama, and that's the fastest way for me to go off somewhere and play games and pretend this place doesn't exist. I hate that it's hard to find the connections with great writing or interesting things to say sometimes with the volume of articles that are posted, and let's face it, you have to sometimes go through a lot of the things you don't like to seek out good things, and by that time, I'm usually at a point where I've had enough. I hope it improves, so we'll see.
... i can second that opinion ... truth is truth!
Rob, I'm glad you stuck with Gather. You are a strong writer and deserve to be here as much as any "great" writer. It's hard to believe that people would accuse you of making up losing a leg. That's the one thing I dislike about Gather, that people can be mean.
I too have found great friendships and have re-connected with someone I attended college with.
I agree with you Rob ~ and as far as what one has for breakfast, philosophically speaking, the answer would need to be relative to the time of day one eats breakfast ~myself ~ it's a cheeseburger while reading Rob's page.
I most always read, dont always comment, and if I rate, it is either nothing, or a ten. I like Gather ~ joined about the time it became more of a social network though. Big ole southern hugs to my northern friend ~j
Gather sure has suffered a ot of growing pains over the years Rob
I think sometimes we forget that we all look at Gather differently. I always enjoy your take on things, though.
Hey Rob, the feeling is mutual. I felt a kinship with you way back when we first "met" here. Someday, somehow we will meet and have time to spend in person! From my perspective, you are not only a wonderful and entertaining writer and storyteller, you are also a great discussion generator. Just look at all the comments that came before mine! It's always been like this on your articles. :) I'm sorry you feel you have little to write about these days...as someone before me on the comment thread said, you could write about a dust bunnie and make it interesting and entertaining! I know you don't think of yourself as a writer, but perhaps you need to take a look at how you define "writer". You have one of the most genuine voices in your work of all the people I've read at gather and that takes great talent---to write the way you talk, as opposed to putting together some big, fancy, flowery words of description or narrative, or dialogue. Hey, and what's story-telling when it's written down, but writing. Stories told in words on paper (or virtual paper as the case may be). That's writing. You could easily write a book by compiling together many of the pieces you have already written. Anyway, you do what you like to do, that is what matters. Labels don't!
This is a wonderful piece and I am very honored to have been named as someone you'd like to meet. I'm sorry if I haven't been around much reading and commenting. I am working full time as a karate instructor now (who'd have thought it?) and going to the company's academy school for professional instructors. I have sundays off and usually spend them sleeping lately because I've been so tired.
As far as Gather is concerned, it is a smaller part of my life right now because of time constraints, but you can never keep a true gatherer away for long! It has been and will continue to be, as you said, a "home away from home" (I think that's how you expressed it). I've "met" so many wonderful people here, many of whom I would love to meet in person. You are extra-special to me, though, Rob and I'm determined that we will meet one day. you can show me Park Avenue and we can paint the town red, hee hee.
I was horrified and outraged to read that a few meanhearted people thought you were trying to scam up by making up that you lost a leg. Some people couldn't tell true and genuine if it smacked them upside the face!
I love that you wrote that you are not a genious (though close). That is so Rob Appell to admit that!
I love you lots and lots. Big hugs, Rob! :)
Oh and hey, I like telling people what I eat for breakfast, especially when it's something yummy, like this morning, a ciabiatta roll, toasted with almond butter. Mmmmmmmmm! And a glass of skim milk. ;-)
You'd have to meet me in person to come down and kick these kidz arses ! lol
I enjoyed reading this, you did a great job of describing Gather! I enjoy this site because it is so different from all the others! Excellent article!