Since I’ve always touted HYOH I find some of the comments on this thread interesting in understanding the diversity of opinion among the hiking community.
I do like Virginian’s point…especially the analogy of the guy at work carrying the load while others aren’t “doing their fair share.” It creates friction and resentment at work and apparently on the Trail too. But, having said that, I’ve learned to live with it…I know I did a thru and that’s all that really matters to me. Like OT said, (he knows his journal is an honest representation) he’s not sure why he is wasting his time responding to the critics.
I always felt that this site was, first and foremost, the hiker’s journal…my record for my purposes. Even though I hiked every white blaze, I still received a guestbook entry from an anonymous source that couldn’t stand it because I “went in to town and ate steak” too often. It’s a GUESTBOOK for crissakes! People have a tendency to project their own values onto others…It would be nice if they had a little more class in doing so.
Andy Brown and newb are right on…the critics don’t have a shread of credibility when they go after others without identifying themselves. My guess is they have serious ego problems…they get enjoyment out of belittling others and seeing the reactions…it makes them feel good. Intentional defamation is poor. I’m with Tha Wookie on this one too.
BTW, magic dinmore showed some class when he began this thread with an apology to OT.
How about this…when something someone writes here bothers you so much that you have to question it…try doing so as you would to their face. Ask some questions in a courteous manner…don’t accuse and personnally attack others…and above all have the decency to identify yourself.
And having said that, it would also be nice to add a little humor now and then.
Take Care & Hike On!
Skeemer