Well, I was a coordinator for about 5 minutes (I think I set some kind of record for going in and out of the position). What I liked about it was that there is a sense of community between many of the coordinators. What I didn't like about it is that coordinators seem to become a target for some community members who appear to be on the hunt for someone to be angry at on any and every topic. I'm not sure why coordinators, moderators, administrators are considered sub-humans without feelings, and are not allowed to have a bad day or make a mistake. I am mystified by the attitude of some individuals toward people who are responding, in good will, to the concerns of other people who often will only post in instant messages because they don't want to be flamed for not agreeing with more vocal community members.

I saw, in sum, an unpleasant view of people I had previously liked and I realized I didn't want to see that side of them.

And I didn't like not being able to offer my own opnion, or not being able to defend myself when attacked...taking the high road is very difficult and I'm not at all good at it.

I admire very much the people that take on this duty. I was always treated very kindly by the other coordinators, moderators, and administrators....I didn't quit because of them. And, having seen the other side of things, I don't feel as arrogant about thinking the job has to be easy. It's not. If any of you take it on, I will understand it's because you want to do something good for the community, and I respect people who do something instead of sitting around and complaining without accomplishing anything. It's not easy, but I think the people who do it well find it overall satisfying because they have helped make the community a better place for everyone, and not just a vocal few.

Message edited on: 02/13/2005 10:59