I want to make a post about my appreciation for all the members of MIP- young and old, new and veteran. We are such a cohesive group, we help each other through the toughest of times, and we are there to laugh together when times are good. Each of us has something meaningful to contribute from the day we come across the group chat or message board. Even the newcomer who simply wants to sit and "listen" is a valued member of our group.
I have been hearing much negativity lately, and I know how easy it is to get caught up in a moment of frustration, especially when we feel unappreciated or angry. Regardless of the circumstances, I always try to remember that we are all here for healing and recovery, and kindness is the most important emotion we can share.
Specifically, I would like to comment on some of the criticism and judgement of channel op's. Please, understand that all op's in our group volunteer their time in order to maintain the high quality of our group interactions and give something back. Op's do not go to training at a corporate center, they make mistakes, they are human. In addition, there are many responsibilities that op's have in the chat room that few are aware of or understand. Please remember that being part of a world-wide chat group is an exercise in practicing principles over personalities, taking what we like and leaving the rest. With so many participants from all over the globe, we are bound to disagree from time to time. If there is anything I have learned, it's that appreciating the differences of others is vital to having meaningful relationships.
Thanks, one and all, for being here and being a part of the magic that happens!

Love and hugs-

Cara