I think this is an EXCELLENT example that all newbies (myself included) should learn from. In the past month or two, I've seen a few of the newer guys post some stupid sh** and the ball-busting commenced. It was quite obvious to almost everyone on the board (except the guilty party) that all of it was justified and deserved. However, they chose to act like a 5 year old and got themselves backed into a corner and tried to whine and/or fight their way out instead of listening to what was said, learning from it, and moving on. This is a great example of how, with some common sense (which I know is in short supply these days) a little bit of humblness (in your newbie status) and some maturity, things can work out for the best. The FOGs have better things to do than to bust someone's balls for no reason. When they do it, they are trying to set you straight and point out your mistake. Take it for what it's worth, be respectful to EVERYONE in the process, and it's over. Lesson learned, no harm done. You will have become a better member of the community for it. I think the responses by some of the FOGs in this thread prove that they are busting balls with all the right reasons in mind.
What it all comes down to is that the newbies that have recently had their asses handed to them and are no longer able to post here without being poked at have earned that right! It is nobodies fault but their own that they are in the position they are in now.
I'm not passing any judgement on Atuck's post at all, just wanted to point out how both Atuck and the FOGs both made their point and did it respectfully without starting a childish flame war. I think all of the new guys/gals should take note from this type of interaction and realize that you have to be careful of what you type on the internet. Things can get taken the wrong way very easily. Also, if ball busting ensues, it's probably well deserved and meant to make you a better member of the board. If you can take that for what it's worth (and not take it personally), learn from it and move on, you will become a better member of the community and be much more respected by all who post here. If you decided to try to claw your way out and not take any advice from the elders here, well then you will get what you deserve.
That's just my opinion. But I'm a newbie...so I don't know sh**!
That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!
Thanks for the lesson all! Will definitely file it away in my memory bank for the inevitable time when I will say something stupid. It never fails!
Edited to say: I don't know atuck at all, but I think it really says something about his personality that he was able to keep his head about him and respond to this whole thing the way he did while going through all the things he is with his Mother being sick and all. I don't know if I would have had the wits about me to react the way he did. Thoughts and prayers are still with you and your family atuck. Peace brother.
