Originally Posted by
Jason Beam
... i've started and stopped typing this post for 3 days now ... i don't know what's convinced me to finally post it ...
Mark,
I've watched your DVDs, read your books and met you recently at the AWFS fair in Vegas. In those three venues, you are a completely different person than I see here on SMC. I'm worried that for some reason this place really brings out a side of you that isn't helpful to yourself or those who read what you post.
Your videos, books and other publications position you as a HIGHLY credible source of valuable information. However, on SMC, the very thing you're complaining about brings out a side of you that I really wish I'd never seen. We're all human, and we're all going to think for ourselves. It seems like you aren't fully accepting that fact.
People want to be right; nobody likes to be contradicted. People especially don't like to be contradicted and insulted at the same time. I see many situations where people reply with valid, proven, rock-solid facts that contradicts someone else's statements. Doing so is a tricky line to walk. If you want to avoid a conflict, it doesn't matter how right you are, you have to approach them in such a way that isn't going to tick them off. Someone mentioned Dale Carnegie's book "How to Win Friends and Influence People".
I guess what I'm trying to say is ... you're so much more friendly in your publications, why such a difference on here?
It's really hurting my impression of you to see all the ranting and raving.
If I may be so bold as to offer some advice:
Yes, this place is a GREAT place for you. It may not be for the purpose of dispelling myths in the ways you've gone about it. But where else will you be able to see exactly what information a large chunk of the woodworking community is lacking? Use this place, at least in part, to discover what the misinformation is and WHY it's the prevailing wisdom. Construct your responses as carefully as you would your books and videos. Nobody has to agree with you, they have their own brains.
You only serve to damage your own reputation when you stomp around like this. Let 'em spew their misinformation, you will never stop 'em - it's not within your control.
I wish I'd never seen this side of you, Mark. I'd like to see less of it, myself. If that means leaving, that's really unfortunate. I had the impression that you're bigger than that.
I sure hope this gets taken with the lament i've been feeling for the last few days.