Dan's Idea

2006-8-2 05:06:00

Dan writes:

I am thinking of resurrecting (a version of) the old discussion cafe for the purpose of exploring gleanings (older teachings) from the archives of JJ's teachings. My concept of such a group is that it should be for a mental discussion of JJ's teachings, not so much for speculating or teaching stuff from elsewhere except for secondary references to sources/viewpoints which we individually think support or are in harmony with HIS teachings. When someone has a question/comment on anything other than JJ's current topic of discussion, but JJ related :-), they could post it to this group (newbies could be gently directed there) and interested parties could attempt to give an answer endeavoring to harmonize with what JJ has taught (their interpretation) on the subject, GIVING LINKED ARCHIVAL REFERENCES believed to support their position. After discussion, we could then compile said references into FAQ/book form and direct (newbie) keyster folks to them as necessary, perhaps sticking them in the 'file' section here, there or on a webpage(s).

This sounds like more than a resurrection, Dan. This sounds more like a new and improved incarnation and I think it has potential for good if done right.

The cafeteria was a good idea and attempt to take off topic discussions elsewhere but the trouble was not many used it because members wanted to be where the action was and write to a large rather than a small audience.

This idea has a chance of greater success because people would be going there for purposes other than to let off steam or to talk off topic. They would be going there to learn and teach.

If you go ahead with this there are two things I would like to see happen.

Cover various subjects that would fill in some gaps for new people as well as stimulate old timers. Do this one at a time and when it has been fairly well covered proceed to the next one. What I am now doing with Principles of Discovery could be done with numerous other topics. For instance, when I get this series completed I plan on posting it on my web page. This could also be a good series for the new discussion group to have.
Secondly, it would be helpful for the more seasoned members to ask questions and then tabulate and respond to the answers. People like this personal attention and I concentrated more on giving it in the beginning than I do now. The most important thing for me to do at present is to just get the material written. Often I do not have time to acknowledge the comments and good posts that others have made. I know that some feel a little ignored because of this. A second group could help out by giving a more personal touch.

To make this personal touch work would require a leader. It doesn't work well to have several people trying to lead the group at one time. My suggestion is to have a new team leader, say once a month or whatever works. This person would basically be in charge of coordinating posts. Team leaders should be knowledgeable, well liked and trusted by the group. Anyone who acts as a team leader should have the support of the group and to insure this is the case new team leaders could be voted in.

Since this is Dan's idea and he is moving to initiate he becomes the automatic coordinator and a team leader. Since John C is throwing in his support and expertise he becomes a good candidate for a revolving team leader.

Finally, it is good to remember that no creation is perfect at the beginning but a period of trial and error and making improvements has to take place. Start this with the idea of listening to the needs of members and improving as we go.

I'm glad to see no one wants to ban you, Dan.

Global Warming Enlightenment: Contrary to popular belief, greenhouse gas emissions in the United States have been reduced 0.5 percent since Bush became president. Knight-Ridder, Oct 13, 2004