A Declaration Wherein I Discuss The Most Probable Causes Leading To My Fondness For Gather

1. The people you meet - I have been privileged to encounter people from all over the US and the world.

2. The support you get - No matter how serious the problem is, if you discuss it with friends on Gather, you will get support, encouragement and prayers. Even if it is so small a matter as your child won't eat his vegetables or the neighbor is a moron, people will offer suggestions (no, I can't shoot the moron) and help you get over your frustration.

3. The poetry - I am not a critic.  It may actually be rotten poetry but if I like it, what difference does it make in the scheme of things? I enjoy reading the poems people have spent time to compose and want to tell them I liked their creative endeavor.

4. The education - Just last week, I learned of sestinas and tankas. Someone spent the time to write out how each was composed which helped me better appreciate all the work that goes into writing them.

5. The pictures - Need I say more?  The fabulous photo essays here are a major benefit of following this site. I don't want to list individual names among my connections but there are people here who not only can take awesome pictures, but put together an enthralling story to explain them. (You folks know who you are!)

6. Fun games - Some people hate these; some love them.  I don't participate in all; sometimes I go by and throw out a comment or two.  Here I can name my two most favorite: Krissy's Scattergories and Ernie Johnson's Play on Words.

7. Being challenged to think about your life -  I was initially stumped when I was tagged to write "What's Weird About Me,"  " Five Positive Things About Me," and the most recent, "Childhood Memories." Two weeks ago, I would have said I didn't remember much of my childhood. After being challenged to write about memories, I spent some time thinking and came up with many happy occasions.  One thought would lead to another.  I don't remember who tagged me, but I am grateful.  I got so many nice comments on that article; that aspect even added to my joy in remembering.

8. Triple Points Week Part One - I got a lot of points.  I had joined Gather on March 9th. From then until May 24th, I had made around 1300 points.  In the past week, I made almost 1400!  That was fun.

9. Triple Points Week Part Two - I got to meet a lot of new people.  Many of them I connected with officially so I can keep  up with their work.

10. Gather is a participate as you desire place - I spent  A LOT of time here the last week.  Now I am taking a slight Gather vacation, knowing that whenever I take a minute to look in, there will be a variety of interesting items to peruse.

THANKS GATHER.  I LOVE THIS PLACE.           WILMA