I've lurked in a.r.s for a *long* time. At one time, I really admired
Diane more than any other poster here. Her "just the facts" attitude
and her willingness to do actual research made her an anchor in the group.
Her writings were clear, well written, and authoritative. She was one
of my A.R.S heroes...

One still very occasionally sees a posting by Diane which indicates the
she still has the ability to write a truly informative and invective-
free posting, but such occurances are rare.

I refuse to speculate on her mental health or personal life, but there is
one net-visible aspect of her life which I believe has done much to
poison her relationships here...

IRC.

For some reason, IRC seems to bring out the absolute *worst* in people.
Perhaps it is the temptation to grandstand and wound (as on Usenet),
without the luxury of time to reflect on whether to really hit the
"Send" button.

I've never tried any of the scientology related IRC channels, nor do
I wish to. I assume that at times they are amusing and informative,
otherwise there wouldn't be so many folks attracted to them. But I've
also see stuff quoted from them which makes me *very* glad to stay
away. Fairly nasty stuff from people whom I respect. And I also
know that most of the feuds in A.R.S seem to have their roots in
IRC.

I really think that IRC is simply _bad_ for a lot of people, Diane
(and Bob) included. It encourages petty squabbling and vicious
backstabbing, and fosters ill feelings which lead to more of
the same. I know that my skin isn't thick enough to let the
insults roll off of me.

I understand the allure of online communications, particularly those
with the immediacy of IRC and other online chat. But there are times
when the costs are higher than any possible benefit.

I encourage _everyone_ who participates in IRC to reflect briefly
on the number of "enemies" they've made there, and whether the
nature of the medium, or the people it tends to attract, are the
reasons for these enemies.

I really miss the "old" Diane. A.R.S could still use her.

I could be completely off base here, but I really think that IRC
is very bad for her.

Please, Diane, consider dropping off of IRC for a month or so.
Your "friends" there will carry on without you. And your
"enemies" will quickly tire of talking about those not
present. Just walk away. It isn't worth it.

I really, sincerely believe that you would be a better person
for doing so.

--
Jim Glidewell
My opinions only