Endless discussions / good or bad ?

[RicB]

Hi folks

I've thinking a bit about the recent comments about threads that never 
go away, thinking about some of the stuff we've seen tossed around this 
past couple years, and thinking about some subject matter that we seem 
to have stopped talking about... or even see some advise folks not to 
talk about...

Seems to me that there is nothing wrong per se with round after round on 
familiar themes.  And the only reason I see for not talking about any 
particular subject matter (piano related especially since this is a 
pianotech list) is the one that goes along the lines of <<avoiding 
arguments / flames / etc).  Such a reason for not talking about 
something is not the most flattering statement about we as humans IMHO.  
Strikes me that there are many many good reasons for continuing dialouge 
on a host of subject matter, even if any particular one of us is rather 
sure of ourselves for the time being. Again.. this last sorte into 
string seating is a good example.

We had a new fellow with limited experience and/or exposure to the 
discussion about this proceedure asking a question.... seeking new 
perspectives and answers.  What he got was a couple three very short 
posts on mine and two or three others thinking, a refereal to the 
archives and an article, and a warning to not bother taking up the 
subject matter further because it was a hot potatoe.  Not exactly the 
most enlightening of dialouges.

I see several very good reasons why we should make every attempt to 
continue discussion of just about any theme regardless of its 
controversial nature.

1. Introduction of such discussion themes to new readers who 
continuously check in.
2. Developing and displaying in ourselves the ability and desire to 
recheck our own thinking by courteously dealing with others thoughts 
regardless of how much in dissagreement we are.
3. Inherent admissions in said (2) that go along the lines of awareness 
that we may always be wrong (or right) in our thinking.
4. Setting the example of comradeship and fellowship that is at the 
core  spirit of not only the PTG's stated values, (and I might add most 
of the worlds religions)

I could go on and on I suppose.  Perhaps others have a few other reasons 
to keep talking about hot issues.  The only one for not doing so strikes 
me as a self declaration of futility... one I dont accept personally.  
The alternative seems to me to let the list dissolve into a daily diary 
of harmless niceties that no one really learns much from.

I for one will never refuse to talk or communicate to anyone at all. I 
reject utterly the thought of doing so.  Seeking contact, building 
relationships is as much a part of this list, organization, and 
fellowship as it is anything else.

Cheers
RicB