Why? I've been involved in this type of community for 11 years. It's part of my history. I can relate to many of the people here. I was friends with some of those who started this clan, and I've become friends with others who later joined. I take an interest in this community, and I'd like to stay in touch as it continues to change.
But I also have one more reason, which I'll explain shortly. First of all, this post probably comes as a surprise to many of you. There are people who will probably vote no, because I've had my share of fights. All I can say, is that despite appearances, I'm usually well meaning. I do what I think has an overall positive impact, and I'm also quite honest. This is a variation on the "ends justify the means". For example, if I thought I could save one intelligent animal, even indirectly, in exchange for people disliking me, I would do it. If I thought I could save someones life from a failed marriage, at the expense of that person hating me, I might give it a try. I am not always right, and of course, I will not always succeed, but I do what I think will
most likely have the best end result, based on my subjective assessments. And if I had to choose between being able to express myself freely and honestly, or being a phony in order to join a clan, I'd choose free speech and honesty.
In making this request, I'm gambling on the fact I really didn't have to make that choice. In the real world, that's not usually how it works. You have to follow a protocol. You have to have a certain etiquette. You have to be dishonest, to some extent. You have to play the system. And this brings me to my final reason. I'm hoping this community is different. I'm hoping that it's not like a presidential election. It's just a place where people can freely speak their minds, as long as the underlying intentions are usually good. If nothing else, this provokes discussion and makes things more interesting.
So, I have leader approval. I'd prefer that this thread isn't locked once voting has started, because people might have questions, and a public response might be of interest to others with the same questions. And I won't take offense at a 'no' vote, so don't worry about that.
