My only hope is that the sides think not only of "their sides", but the people that use the product as well. Every side exists because of the other. In other words, compromise is key or else each side cuts off their nose to spite their face.
Without the program there is no need for a USER... Without the USER there is no need for a program. You can replace the bold word with any particular group involved in SMF like Customizer, Charter Member, Developer, etc etc etc. Also, it just goes to show you how intertwined all these groups are.
We all rely on each other and each person needs to ask a simple question; Why are you here? Are you here because you want to help others or want to assist in creating something great? Or, are you here because of a need to be in control or feel some grandeur?
Personally, I'm here because I wanted to create a site where my friends could come together and speak freely. In finding SMF over a year ago, I found a place and program where I saw people from all ways of life coming together for a common goal; communication. This is what SMF and forums are about. I hope that the people listed in the original post remember this.
I think that most of the hostilities, rumors, and misconceptions could have been avoided if things were handled differently, but that's the benefit of hindsight. In the future, I hope that those who are in charge are more open, forthcoming, and less cryptic about what is happening behind the scenes. Lack of communication is what breeds the negativity. To me it has been a lack of explanation of what is really going on which gets the emotions involved.
At this point, the damage is done. Whether it really is about taxes, structure or something else, there is now fallout. It is up to those who are in charge to state things CLEARLY from now on and not VAGUELY like in another thread. VAGUENESS creates doubt and is the fault of those who don't explain themselves CLEARLY. It isn't the fault of the membership who may interpret it wrong.
Hopefully everyone involved will not let their Pride keep them from doing what is correct for the whole of the program. Sorry, it just pisses me off that troubles happen here when there is so much potential and good. SMF has done so much for so many people. I hate to think that a few people on whatever side could choke things.
