My Writers Cafe.

I've been asked quite a few times today what my writerscafe.org is, so heres my response.

There are has been an ever escalating argument between writers on the site for the past few days now - I'm not one to name names however if you are an avid reader you'll know. A lot of my readers contacted me asking my advice on how to process this information and if it was worth staying on this site.

When I joined writerscafe a million years ago, I remember the excitement - giving my work to the world, for them to read and comment on, give me advice on. The most terrifying thing though is that this site is packed with other amazing writers that can cut you like a knife with their words. Don't get me wrong, I neither agree with this practice nor dis-agree, hell, I know quite well that some of work deserved to end up in a bin and not with my name beside it on a site such as this.

My point is though that with this tornado of opinions and positions not all of us will agree to everything or with everyone. That’s life as we know it, and no-one can change that, but we can be more subjective in how we approach each other.

Be respectful, use civilised language when addressing each other - and do not start a campaign of hatred against each other, it isn't productive and isn't good for you. If you’re anything like me and try to get along with all - then it must be a heavy burden on the heart to see some of your favourite writers at each other’s throats. I am mature enough to know that some people will just never get a long - and that’s fine.

When it comes to the point when the writers on here are getting so abusive that it borders on the outrageous, or when we are not thick skinned enough to take such abuse, the writerscafe have wonderful facilities of blocking and flagging - use them if you must, but do not go to war with each other - I beg of you.

What is writerscafe for me - a haven for all writers, readers and friends - let’s keep it that way shall we?

Author's Note

This is not preaching to anyone, just my take on the situation.

Reviews

[Valentine]

Thomas, thankfully I was off a couple of days and missed it..I find if you can't agree with ones writing..block them..do not run them down..I love this site and the people on it and have made some long time friends..so I like Thomas...say please try to be kind to each other..Kathie

[Thomas Fitzgerald]

Thanks

[theta sigma]

Those are good points and heartily agree. Some people can be very abrupt and cut someone at their low ebb on times. What you say is right in it's way. and keep up the good work.

[Caradoc]

This or something similar should be on the main page of the website. As well, I think it's something everyone should see or hear in some shape or form. Common decency isn't so common anymore.

[Tree]

Not preachy at all, Thomas. I echo your sentiments. Be respectful, and if all else fails just avoid those you don't get along with. Just like the real world. No use turning this into a war zone, it's far too valuable a site.

[KAOlmsted]

I think this needs to be required reading for all existing members and future members. I try to be as diplomatic as possible at all times and, right this very minute, there are three people for whom I have so much respect, people who at one point respected one another, at each others' throats, and it breaks my heart to bits. I'm here as a serious writer, hoping to glean as much advice as possible while finishing my novel, and having fun with poetry; and I try to offer my help whenever it is asked for (and, sometimes when it's not *laugh*) Thanks so much for posting this. Something drew me to it...and I'm pleased it did. Yours is the voice of reason and i echo your thoughts 100%.

-kimmer

[Crystal Marie Dreier]

I agree one hundred percent! I would love to see people get along even though we all know it is not possible. It is a shame, but if we just got along, yes I agree with you on the fact that we dont all get along and we may not like the comments we recieve but that is their opinions we cant take it to heart. I hope the drama and fights cease.

[SyberRose]

I saw a battle going on the other night between some young people on the live feed...I dont know why they just didnt block each other...it was getting quite vulgar.

[Thomas Fitzgerald]

I agree.

[Michael G.]

Well put.
You are wise enough to know you won't convince everyone to follow your thoughts, though many here agree with them. Some really enjoy the thrill of being hurtful. (Never understood that thought myself.)
I'll step off my little platform now.

[Yellow Butterfly]

I couldn't have said this better my self....

Nicely said.... :O)

[Girl Friday (Sarah W.)]

This is the second work I've read today detailing this "situation"...see, i step away for a few days and I miss the fireworks!