It's probably appropriate that this observation be made on this thread. A lot of the worst rhetoric in the history of AVS has had the word "Theta" in it. There are multiple offenders, both pro and con Theta, that have been convicted. I'm one of them.

I remember a thread a few years ago, where the topic of discussion between usual equipment-gladiators took place. Somewhere in the dialogue a reference was made to some actual music, and actual musicians, and, after a few posts, someone made the keen observation that the combative tone had instantly disappeared, being replaced by mutual enthusiasm for the real issues, i.e, the music and the artists. It was a welcome break from the mine-is-longer-than-yours theme that gets expressed in so many variations on AVS and similar forums. Instead of the petty and incredibly materialistic attitude that has claimed even the most noble on these pages, we participated in sharing some genuine enthusiasm over one of the highest gifts we've been given--music and the love of it.

In the midst of this, Bulldogger brought up the subject of his daughter, and the inherently good and giving spirit that characterizes the adoption of a child, and the silly combative tone dropped out like a lost cellular phone call in a tunnel. Good riddance.

I don't suggest that we refrain from discussing the things that will inevitably lead to more petty combat (after all, we're all he-men here!). What I'm saying is that we need to remember, with each post, whether we write it or read it, that all of us agree that when we're discussing equipment and other toys, we're talking about trivial things. There are more abundant things to contemplate, things like Music and Bulldogger's daughter.

Thanks,

Nick :cool:

I'm quoting Nick from a Theta thread. (For once) I completely agree with him.

Bulldogger and I are good friends, we talk frequently, and both before and after he and his wife adopting their child I told him this would be their best blessing ever, so much more signifcant than any AV hobby stuff we discuss.
He is really a nice guy - and its so nice to see deserving folks be awarded the opportunity to be parents. Not easy at times (my girls are 19 and 20). But no richer rewards can come from anything.

I plead guilty to being an "offender" as Nick would say. Nick and I are two pretty good attorneys who I guess at times enjoy "offending" here on AVS.
Mebbe in the future we will "offend" less.

How about you?

Great Post!

I think it is not only important to give less offense, but to take less offense. It is a forum, after all, with many contradictory POVs and opinions. We can't all be right. But some people take offense just because someone else's opinion doesn't match their own.

Unfortunately, my daughter apparently was born with my skepticism :)

http://www.adnm.com/skeptical.jpg

desiderata - by max ehrmann

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass.
Take kindly to the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann c.1920

Good post Steve, but without the passion (read: arguments) we have here, it would get pretty boring. While I've had some heated exchanges with some people here, I sure don't take any personal stabs to heart, and would have no issues shaking anyone's hand here if I met them in person, whether I share their audio or video viewpoint or not.