[Paddlewise] The only thing we have to fear is fear itself

In a message dated 7/12/00 5:11:50 PM, kasia_pierzga_at_hotmail.com writes:

<< Steven Featherkile: Thanks so much for posting my office telephone number 
and inviting the planet to give me a call.>>

<< You folks are WAY too paranoid! >>

<< I initially arrived at Paddlewise a couple weeks ago...(big 
snip)......I've since 
discovered that this newsgroup does not really encourage a free exchange of 
ideas and opinions, that in fact you have to pretty carefully vet whatever 
you say or risk being flamed by someone who doesn't agree with you and can't 
stand the fact that your opinion is different from theirs.>>

<< I guess we should all just stick to discussions about stuff like 
which boat is easier to roll and what paddle leash to buy. That way we can 
pretend the other controversies don't exist. >>

<<Judging from the supportive E-mail I've received from numerous Paddlewisers 
(all of which I've received directly, outside of the Paddlewise newsgroup), 
I think there are a lot of other people lurking around who hesitate to talk 
about stuff that might be controversial. >>

<< Some advice for all of you conspiracy theorists out there: Turn 
off your computer and go outside and get some sunshine. >>

    My what a wonderful impression we appear to have made on our fellow 
paddler, Kasia. It's been interesting watching this thread / tragedy develop. 
Understandably, I have decided to stay out of the fray before now. Even if 
Kasia was on that grassy knoll so long ago, there is no justification for the 
unfounded attacks on her, nor for the sanctioning of such attacks.
    PW has potential that will never be realized until we learn to celebrate 
our differences rather than strive to minimize them. The vocal minority 
involved with this thread has done severe damage that will not easily be 
forgotten. The lurking majority will, as usual, bear the burden of this 
damage.

    "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself" Winston Churchill

    So what if Tamia paraphrases? So what if her comments are less than 
complimentary? Has *anyone* even heard of Tamia before this thread? Will her 
actions have any long term effect on our sport or our lives? Geeeez, go 
paddling, life's too short for this kind of crap.

Jed (not my real name) Luby
Goffstown, NH

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