Really guys, we're arguing over something that is a positive, and turning it into a negative.
I think that CP'ers are micro-analyzing things too much lately...
I disagree.
That this has sparked some fairly serious exchanges, both insightful and heated, should be a clue that this situation is not as simple as something
purely positive. The issue under discussion is complex because:
a. involves the exercise of core values held by the community - this gets at the heart of CigarPass
b. involves members with a wide range of experience in life, at CigarPass, and in passes - as this forum grows, there will be ever more new members that will benefit from some explicit teaching
To gloss over this or joke it away is ultimately more detrimental to the community than it might seem. If progress isn't made on the issue, it will come back again and in no better state.
But I'll spare you guys the dissertation. I think the key points have already been made:
1. General pass rules apply to all passes unless amended by the pass-master.
- The rules delineate the minimum standard for proper behavior. If proper behavior in the context of a "brass balls" level pass is "do as you will" then that becomes the law in force. If you've read the pass rules and can't abide by them, then you're not obligated to play.
2. Play at your level or a little above.- You've gotta stretch to keep growing, but step off the deep end too soon and you will end up feeling disappointed, inadequate, or frustrated. Don't accept the invitation if you think you can't hang. You might not be able to today, but maybe someday you will, if you want to. And even if you don't, no one's going to think any less of you.
3. Know your fellow passers.- If you're invited to play among a group of senior members AND the cigar list looks intimidating, then maybe this pass isn't for you. Also, part of being a good and conscientious passer is knowing your fellow passers, their quirks, their likes and dislikes, and their passing habits. You can't pick this up overnight but you can learn this by participating on the forum or following along with a pass as a silent spectator.
4. What is it that makes someone a good pass player?- They are aware of the nature of the pass they participate in and play an appropriate role. For example, in an unlimited pass, I'll do whatever delights me and the other passers as long as it is okay with a) the pass master and b) the other participants. However, in a newbie style pass, I'll do my best to post P/Ts within $0.25, explain good and poor pairings, advise on value judgments, and describe in gory detail where and how I arrived at the exchange values.
And finally, Anthony is one of my dearest colleagues on this forum. If the day ever comes where he says "I'm walking" then I'd know that was the day CigarPass had lost its heart. My response would be "I'll follow you out." Today is not that day for him or for me. For as long as I have known him here (pretty much day one for me), his intentions and actions have always been just, collegial, good. But this doesn't come free of cost. Anthony thinks about the goings on and the people here at the Pass. He worries about the people and the community. Many are the times I've gone to him for advice and counsel. And out of the goodness of his heart, he's always taken the time out of his busy day at the office to comfort me. See for yourself!
Anthony at the office. He's the one in the suit.
Anthony making time to speak with his good buddy, Wilkey.
But why does he always sound just a little distracted?
Wilkey