One thing that has struck me is just how powerful people can make these forums. People can find the best of friends, and the brightest inspirations. People can also find crippling sadness and overpowering anger.

I daresay some people can feel more powerful here than in "The Real World." How many of us would insult people so strongly if we were standing in front of them? How many people would threaten physical violence in person? How long would we get away without it without risking arrest?

The online forums are a place where people can come to learn, and maybe even make a living, or at least earn enough to support their Poser hobby. However, they are also a place where people's dreams can die before they're ever realized.

Sometimes I look back at the angry and hurtful times. It gets so overpowering sometimes. Then I ask myself "why do you let them have this power? Why do you do things to irritate people? Why do you let them irritate you?"

I've struggled with these issues a long time. Over the past couple years, I've gotten to a point where I'm far more selective about what threads I bother to post in. If someone needs Poser help, I often respond privately. Yes, I continue to help artists, in my own venue, in an area I can control. And I work very hard not to have an emotional investment.

A moderator/coordinator's job is rough. It might be worth it if the pay was good. But I can think of better ways to volunteer my time. And I'm still trying to figure a way to make my own talents pay.

Message edited on: 02/13/2005 12:17