Dear William Pitt: please don't leave DU.

[femmedem]

Dear William Pitt,

I'm sorry you're being flamed here at DU, and I'm sorry you're thinking of leaving. I'm sure I speak for a lot of people when I say your work has informed, inspired and moved me, and I hope you decide to stay.

Truthout was the first alternative news source I found, and it's still my favorite. Your interview with Scott Ritter opened my eyes to the truth about Iraq, and opened the eyes of my Republican in-laws. When the MSM ignores or distorts a story, I know I can go to your site and learn what's really happening.

Your presence at DU is valuable in a different way. First, if reading Truthout is like attending a great lecture, then reading DU is like attending a great seminar. Okay, maybe it's not always so great. It gets snarky and petty sometimes, I agree. But posters like you bring it back to a higher level. DU is self-correcting that way.

Second, your presence here at DU is a constant reminder that the people who are changing this country for the better aren't superheroes, aren't gods and goddesses, aren't abstractions of any sort. Nope. They're people. And I could be that kind of person, too, if I were willing to act with your courage, integrity and focus.

Third, this is selfish, but I would really miss reading your journal if you left. Your journal entry about meeting Cindy Sheehan filled me up and made me cry and kept me from just slogging through another day, numb and unaware.

Maybe you can keep posting your journal entries without reading the comments if things get to be too much? Or maybe, maybe, lots of other folks will chime in and tell you how much your work here means?

p.s. For folks who don't know what prompted this post, I'm responding to this:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=364&topic_id=1056736&mesg_id=1059497

[NNN0LHI]

1. You must not know Mr. Pitt very well

He doesn't let the pissy stuff get to him.

Don

[Joe Fields]

22. You must not know him very well, because I can tell you....

first hand, from PM's that the "pissy stuff" does get to him.

[Joe Fields]

25. And having said that, I will also say that I admire his talents as a

reporter and writer. It would be a shame to lose his input here at DU.

[mikelewis]

93. A voice of reason...

not mine, yours. Leave if you must but you'll be missed. You're thoughts on issues, even though I don't always agree with them, are welcomed and sought after. It'd be a shame to let a momentary misunderstanding erode your faith in the people who are still learning how to be "good people". I am new to all of this still and look for guidance from those whose understanding outweighs mine. If you go, they'll be one less voice of reason for me to listen to and occassionally question. But if you should go, thanks for all the wonderful work you've done and thanks for the compassion you've shared. You've been an inspiration.

[Zorra]

200. Will: NEVER, EVER let the bastards grind you down.

Remember your signature line?

[helderheid]

2. I had no idea this was going on! Will, do not leave DU!

I got yer back!

[Progressive4Life]

95. Seconded!

We love ya, Will! :grouphug:

Stick around, okay?

[The Wielding Truth]

118. Anyone know what happened?

[texastoast]

3. Hear, freaking, hear

Just quoted you the other day.

[bryant69]

4. That's kind of sad

This place has kind of peaked in aggression lately. But WilliamPitt is quite good, so I hope he doesn't stay away for too long.

Bryant
Check it out --> http://politicalcomment.blogspot.com

[mhr]

5. Will Pitt Has Disagreed With Me Several Times

As a result I never considered leaving DU.

If you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen.

Will Pitt does not own left wing or progressive thought.

[NNadir]

6. Will Pitt? Leaving?

Couldn't happen...?!?

I don't always agree with him, but he is a very fine person...

[sinkingfeeling]

7. Don't leave Will. It does seem like there's a lot of bickering going on

with people with different opinions of immigration and religious themes and stuff, but there are still a lot of us who do think alike 99% of the time. I love your posts as well as your written pieces. Stay.

[pilgrimm]

8. Truthout is an excellent site

It was also one of the first alternative news sites I found and back in 2002 during the run up to war it really helped solidify my opposition to the war. With out it I may have never really had all the facts to make that decision. It would be a real loss for DU to Lose WillPitt

[katty]

108. been getting truthout for years-great site

[Sammy Pepys]

9. J.H.C!

What is going on with this place lately?

[DainBramaged]

15. What's going on is people don't want their thought challenged

They think they know everything they need to know, and so so many have either given up or infiltrated.

I say if you don't like Mr. Pitt, get out yourselves. Go find a place that agrees with you. Mr. Pitt has been here when most of you were still in a fog or voting for the opposition that allowed BishyBoy to destroy this country.

As for a previous comment, if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen, bullshit because without DU, there is no kitchen. Get out yourself.

[Joe Fields]

28. You are making the great and erroneous assumption that there

is no room for debate on whatever Will writes. What is wrong with spirited debae on issues of importance?

[mondo joe]

34. But what happens isn't debate. It's personal smears and insults.

And some days if I could remove one word from every political board it would be "hate".

I'm so fucking sick of the lowest common denominator to every argument: "You hate ."

[vickitulsa]

56. How right you are! Anger certainly has a place and can be useful

to effect change for the better. But hate is something else altogether and IMO has no beneficial purposes.

And if you read on in some of those posts where someone says "you hate" whatever as an accusation, there will often be phrases of their own tucked in there somewhere that say "I hate"!

I came to grips with a bad habit I had way back when I was in my early 20's (I'm 56 now) -- a verbal habit I had unconsciously "inherited" from my mom. Now, my mother was always the most loving and caring of creatures, but she had somehow developed a habit of expressing her dislike of things by saying "I hate _______ (whatever)."

For instance, she would hear a song come on the radio she just didn't care to listen to, and she'd say, "I hate that song." Or a TV program, or an actor, or even a neighbor on occasion. She didn't really mean she truly "hated" them, though I didn't understand the difference until I was grown. To her, it was casual language and did not signify any intense emotions.

But because I'd picked up her lingo, I found myself saying "I hate" waaaay too often, and I decided that had to stop. I told my spouse at the time to point it out to me when I began a sentence that way, and he did -- and it worked!

In pretty short order, I'd weeded that bit of nastiness out of my conversations. And the strangest thing about this is that when I did, I actually felt much less angry and negative about the world and people in general after that!

So YES! I say "STOP THE HATE" -- and let's reinstitute RESPECT for each other and indeed for all humans. I don't have to like or agree with someone's politics to show him/her respect as a human being. We should argue the issues, not sling mud. What does mudslinging accomplish? Not a damn thing except to foster division and strife ... and draw out anger and hatred in others.

I was very disturbed to see all the aggressive, almost violent, arguments and flamefests going on here at DU, which I definitely didn't think of as that type of place. But now I'm heartened again to see a lot of OPs appearing which are calling for an end to such useless and divisive threads and posts.

PEACE, brothers and sisters. And I hope Will Pitt decides to stay on and continue to contribute to the dialogue here at DU. Thanks for all you do, Will!

[sheelz]

89. Do you hate Bush?

I certainly do! And yes, I'm also angry, but I refuse to move from anger toward acceptance.

"Have I told you lately how much I hate these people?" ~Mike Malloy

The above statement Does NOT apply to Will. Some may disagree with Will but why bring "hate" into the discussion?

[mondo joe]

94. None of us are mind readers, and whether someone hates

some one (or thing) or not is really not that relevant except as a way to smear other people.

[sheelz]

97. I understand none of us are mind readers...

Ask them questions and use facts to call them on their smear.

[mondo joe]

99. Yes - that's what should be done, and what shuold be done

instead of a smear to begin with.

I think as DU has grown into a "bigger tent" the sniping and smears have grown more prominent. Some days I almost feel like I'm on the Yahoo boards.

It might be time for DU to reassess how it handles personal attacks.

[sheelz]

103. Most here are for a bigger tent

and the smears come from all sides of the tent.

[mondo joe]

112. Sure they do. And just the same, I think DU might want to reassess

how it handles personal attacks.

A bigger tent means there will be more disagreements. We should be able to handle those through dialogue and respect, rather than trashing each other.

[sheelz]

129. I believe the mods handle those...

It's against the rules. Do you have a link to the trashing? Did you notify the mods?

[On the Road]

128. Thank You for That Post, VickiTulsa,

I've developed a similar pattern recently, maybe worse. When I under stress, I will say "I HATE my life." I didn't use to do that.

I am actually going to try your suggestion out and see how it works.

[Joe Fields]

66. You said that "What's going on, is that people don't want their

thoughts challenged." That's a lot different than your reply to me. There is a great difference between people's thoughts being challenged and personal attacks.

Will does however, open himself up to personal attack with his often smarmy responses. I do think he's man enough to "keep the wheat and throw away the chaff."

[mondo joe]

92. Actually, I didn't say that at all. You've mixedup 2 different

posters.

But to resond to what you DID say, I don't see how Will opens himself to personal attack, because everyone is responsible for their OWN personal attacks - not anyone else's.

[Joe Fields]

104. Sorry. You are correct. I did mix two posters up. However,

Will does open himself up sometimes to personal attacks with short, smarmy answers. The way he answers people sometimes can be construed as quite condescending and arrogant. People are only human, and if they feel slighted by something said, there can be a tendency to lassh out in a personal manner. That doesn't make it right, just human.

[mondo joe]

145. That's the "She made me hit her!" argument kids use.

One hopes adults would be more self-controlled.

[Joe Fields]

245. Few of us are christian enough to turn the other cheek when offended.

By the way, adults act more like children than children do.

[mondo joe]

246. I don't see what being Christian has to do with anything.

And as to adult or child behavior, I can only say adults ought to be responsible for themselves.

If people can't behave responsibly, Will is not to to blame.

[Joe Fields]

249. You must live in an awfully serene household.

Will has opened himself up top a lot of criticism. Because of that, he can expect to get flamed. THAT's the real world.

[mondo joe]

250. I do, as a matter of fact.

And I don't believe in blaming the victim.

If people can't behave themselves they ought to be kicked off the board.

There's a big difference between constructive disagreement and personal smears.

[Joe Fields]

266. Will Pitt a victim? I hardly think so.

Will has been known to give as good as he gets. Sometimes he opens himself up to flame with condescending and arrogant remarks. I like him, and would miss his input, but if he can't take it, he shouldn't dish it out. Politics IS a full contact sport.

[Seabiscuit]

252. You have a point.

Will has a nasty habit of posting smarmy little condescending things like "Bullshit. n/t" when he disagrees with someone or (gasp!) when someone dares state a different point of view. That is an opening volley deliberately inviting flames. Putting Will on a debating stage would probably result in his screaming "shut up!" at some point a la Bill O'Lielly. It's an ego thing with him.

It would be nice if he kept his essay writing here and took his ego somewhere else.

[demdiva]

203. Agreed. It happens too often.

I stopped posting for awhile because personal insults ruined it for me.
However, I did come back....

[demdiva]

204. p.s. Don't leave! I'm a big fan!!!

[DainBramaged]

151. The members don't need to skewer him

His voice is more important than mine or yours because he gets PUBLISHED, and he's a lot smarter than most here.

So there.

[PaganPreacher]

199. Oh, horse manure!

"His voice is more important than mine or yours because he gets PUBLISHED, and he's a lot smarter than most here.

So there."

What a load of crap!

You may speak for yourself, but don't try to categorize the rest of us as less intelligent, or less important, than William Rivers Pitt.

Will is a nice enough guy, but he is no better, nor more "important", than anyone else here- including you. Give yourself some credit.

The Pagan Preacher
I don't turn the other cheek.

[DainBramaged]

257. Crap back to you and beanies and willies too

[DainBramaged]

156. There is always room for debate

But not from a minority that thinks they can push out those that disagree with them. The smug ones. "We believe this way so since you don't you suck"

Assholes.

So there, everyone else go fuck your selves yeah.

[chookie]

44. Agreed

The intolerance of rational discussion and incivility here lately has been horrendous.

Some people's idea of "debate" is simply to get into someone else's face and scream "SHUT UP F*****!" -- and believe themselves to be the moral equivalent of Patrick Henry. They are attempting to stifle debate, not engage in spirited debate -- and they do so by intimidation. I'm dealing with it by frequent use of the Ignore and Hide Threads feature. I have no problem with people disagreeing with me -- in fact I am very interested in other points of view, even if I do not share them, but I have no use for Brown Shirt BS, which is simply a waste of my time.

[Goblinmonger]

60. Yeah that's it.

Brilliant argument. Not to mention this gem, "...if you don't like Mr. Pitt, get our yourselves." So people who don't want their thought challenged should get the fuck out, but not Mr. Pitt, or you, or anyone who thinks like you.

Good Christ, do you even read what you type?

[DainBramaged]

153. Good Christ isn't a part of this argument so there

[shadowknows69]

61. I'll thank you not to make any presumptions

on the status of my or anyone else's activism/politics before coming to DU. This is the greatest forum I've ever been involved in but if it comes down to sandbox kindergarten fights and people waving their dicks in the air about how much more they contribute than anyone else then you'll be losing me as well.

[DainBramaged]

170. You talking to me? I'll presume all I want.

I don't need to swing my dick in the air as you so bluntly put it, I'm very happy with it staying in my pants. If you don't like what I have to say, put me on ignore, I don't give a shit. Just don't play your bullshit Republican tough guy routine here. I have already promised, we lose in November, I'm done with politics. I have too few years left to fight with children about right and wrong, and the Right IS wrong.:mad: :mad: :puke:

[shadowknows69]

172. Preaching to the choir man

I was just making apoint that no one's opinion here is any more or less valid than anyone else's if it's based on something stupid like who has been here longer.

[LittleClarkie]

107. How ironic that a "Don't go Will" thread is turning into

just the kind of thing that makes Pitt wanna leave. Oye.

[lumberjack_jeff]

119. I like Will's writing a great deal, but your logic is flawed.

Dialog is worthless without two viewpoints. Everyone needs to cultivate the ability to defend their opinions. From the caliber of Will's writing, I suspect that he needs no assistance. I find it surprising that he (of all people) would consider leaving DU (of all places) because the dialog is insufficiently collegial (of all possible reasons).

I think it's presumptuous to appoint one's self the arbiter over who should get out of the DU kitchen.

[DainBramaged]

171. Of course my logic is flawed, that's the way you view it.

I think not, I don't care. If you can't defend Will Pitt, you should think about defending the Right, because we have enough here attacking him.

[shadowknows69]

202. So if we're not with Will Pitt

We're against him? ;-) Ok , this is bordering on silly isn't it? Where's the DU love?

[tavalon]

240. Your ribbon?

usually used for autism awareness, Is your family affected?

[lumberjack_jeff]

260. Yes, my 7 year-old son.

... and thanks for asking.

:hi:

[tavalon]

264. Our son is turning 11 romorrow

He is a joy and a handful and a half. I wouldn't have asked this for him or for us but we're doing the best we can and one of those "besr we can" is moving up to Seattle next month so he can start middle school getting more reasonable services than special ed. daycare.

[lumberjack_jeff]

265. Our son is pretty high-function...

... but I've considered moving to a bigger city for his benefit. It's tough, because he has two older brothers to consider too.

I live about 1 1/2 hours from Seattle, I read that they have a good program for kids with developmental disabilities. Good luck!

[maddezmom]

270. my son is 4

and low functioning at this point. But there is always hope for the future. :) Mind if I steal your ribbon to add to my sig line?

[savemefromdumbya]

201. Repug infiltration

[Goblinmonger]

256. Nice logical leap

Anyone who doesn't support Will Pitt is a repub infiltrator. Yeah, I have spent a year+ on here just biding my time, posting extremely liberal stuff, getting my post count over 2000 just so I could attack Will Pitt. :tinfoilhat:

[wicket]

10. Please don't go Will!

:kick:

[blm]

11. I missed another flamefest where good Democrats are being pushed away.

That is just so sad - and so obvious that some are being targeted and piled on by operatives working to tear down Democrats from within.

GOPs have employed that tactic since the 60s.

[Der Blaue Engel]

13. And the question is...

...WHY THE FUCK are we letting them win?????

A couple of highly mobile, vocal asshats are doing their damnedest to destroy the last few sources of liberal news (or easy, one-stop access to and dicussion of it here at DU), and people are falling for it. This is infuriating me.

[shamrock]

21. Well it worked with me.

I'm gone....not that it will make any difference. It's not the difference of opinions, it's the nastiness and name-calling. If that's what Liberals are I want no part of it.

[annabanana]

58. You find the -right- less "flamey"?.... really?. . . . n/t

[shamrock]

210. I didn't say the -right-

is less "flamey". Where did you get that?

[Joe Fields]

84. It is definitely a question of maturity.

I'm a middle-aged man who enjoys this forum very much. It is a rare outlet for democratic activism. But I notice that many here are much younger and way more radical in their thinking, and not ashamed to display their raw emotions.

In many cases, total immaturity reigns supreme.

[jackster]

263. Joe,

I've noticed the same thing. We don't want to quash the young's fire and determination, but they also need to learn to listen to the more mature members wisdom.

Let us all work together. We cannot end intolerance if we ourselves are intolerant. We are never going to agree 100% on every issue, let us work together to take the best ideas and make our society better. Let us learn that a compromise is not necessarily a defeat, but a coming together.

Agree or disagree with Will Pitt and understand that he is no more or no less than any of us who live in a democracy. But respect his intelligence, his wisdom, his journey, his drive.

I love and admire Will Pitt. I don't agree with him always, but I always respect him. Without him here it will be a little less bright.

[Joe Fields]

271. In total agreement.

I have sparred with Pitt on the issues occasionally, bringing out points and sides to an issue that he did not address. But it does not diminish his contributions here and in Truthout. Will has access to insider information that most of us do not have, and he is a good writer. He has worked hard for the progressive movement and has a definite place. Ego aside, he is a good man.

[SlavesandBulldozers]

116. oh man and you put a whole 214 posts into it! Wow.

[shamrock]

212. Yeah....and that's

a lot for me. I've been here a long time and read DU EVERY day (addicted). That wasn't a little mocking in your tone was it? I'm better off just reading and not posting.

[tlsmith1963]

166. If You Want Nastiness...

...go hang out with Republicans. They can get a lot nastier than us. Just read anything Ann Coulter has written. It's sad that you actually might think that liberals are worse than conservatives. Especially with all the damage that the neocon Republicans have done to America & to the world.

Tammy

[shamrock]

198. I didn't say

that liberals are worse than conservatives. Where did you get that?
(I'm a Democrat and I despise Bush.)

[shamrock]

209. self-delete (dupe)

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

23. That's why I stay and fight.

I don't give a flying fuck how popular my opinion is around here, but I'll be damned if I just sit by and let a few jackasses push us over the brink of insanity. There might be huge differences between the right and left, but once you get pushed over the edge, it's just one massive pit of ridiculousness.

[Joe Fields]

78. I would like to know who the asshats are. I may be naiive on this

issue, but I haven't been looking for anybody throwing a monkey wrench into our works, nor have I noticed anyone doing so.

All I see are a few inexperienced youngsters who lack wisdom, but overcompensate with mouth.

[DainBramaged]

18. Infiltrators and scumbags, they know who they are

[Goblinmonger]

65. Yeah, you missed it.

Progressive atheists were told they were whackjobs and the Democratic party urged to purge itself of them.

[blm]

102. I'm a progressive atheist, socialist pinko and I ignore those who

are conditioned since birth - I was one of them till 1994 myself, so I understand the power belief has for people. I just wish they'd keep it to themselves more, not that media makes that possible as a rule.

I certainly don't give those who still believe the power to hurt me.

[Goblinmonger]

134. Still sucks

when members of a liberal progressive web site want you out of the party.

Though I agree with the vast bulk of your post.

[Roland99]

147. Still pretending to be offended I see.

:eyes:

[Goblinmonger]

168. Still accusing people of lying I see

:puke: :eyes: :crazy: :silly: :freak: :dunce:

oh, and most importantly :boring:

[Warren DeMontague]

221. From Will Pitt:

"For myself, I apologize to anyone who felt that my support for Raw Story equalled support for a column that unnecessarily (and incoherently) attacked a group of good people."

Will himself thinks the piece in question unnecessarily (and incoherently) attacked a group of good people.

So why is anyone besides Mr. Pitt who also found it objectionable or offensive (including a LOT of people who aren't on DU*) a, as you put it, "freeper infiltrator or GOP operative"?


*

http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2006/04/look_ma_im_a_secular_whackjob.php

http://atheism.about.com/b/a/257416.htm

http://www.neuralgourmet.com/2006/04/25/a_last_word_about_melinda_bartons_article_attacking_most_atheists

[Joe Fields]

70. By calling them "operatives," BLM, you are giving way too much

credit for intelligence to these people, whom I like to call, "Inexperienced." In other words, too young and too unwise in the ways of the world to know any better.

[Roland99]

148. I've seen it happen many times on other boards.

It's obvious to tell that people are Freepers-in-disguise, GOP Team Leaders, etc. All meant to do nothing but disrupt. Some work longer and build up trust and a sort of following and then they flip the switch.

Pretty pathetic life they lead.

[Dorian Gray]

208. Yeah, me too...

I don't know why people are so rude to others. Even if I disagree with Will's positions, which I sometimes do, I would never be rude to him or about him. It's just not worth it.

[novalib]

12. PLEEEEEEEEAAAAASSSSEEEEE, Mr. Pitt`

Mr. Pitt, you are one of the reasons I visit DU often.

For a long time, I just sat back and lurked.

But you, Mr. Pitt, inspired me to become a member and to post.

The WORLD needs more people like you.

DU would not be the same without you.

PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAASSSSSEEEEE STAY.

Please?

14. It is kind of like letting the cry-babies get their way

if you just leave. Will Pitt is one of the few writers I make sure to always read because he has so much to contribute, is involved in politics himself, and provides a kind of ballast to the discussions.

Some people really go nuts with their particular issues, but you can't censor them, because this is such a free flowing forum. It can be very draining to be personally attacked though, so every person has to decide what they want to put up with.

And lastly, there is so much that needs to be rectified in this country that is ours, and a strong voice can be a real beacon.

I guess I can always wander over to the Truthout site if Will Pitt leaves, but it is easier to catch it here.

[kurth]

16. The perfect is the enemy of the good.

[vi5]

17. What was the article in question?

I missed this. I've been trying to stay out of GD. It's far too tense.

[ldf]

179. i believe that it started

with a thread by will about karl rove's last visit to the grand jury.

will assured everyone that there WAS a target letter, and it would be forthcoming, in a post that some considered "chastising".

apparently that was not the case.

after it became obvious there was no target letter, another poster, quite stridently, challenged will to provide proof of the target letter, or publicly apologize for being so confidently wrong.

apparently it escalated from there.

but then, i could be wrong about the cause and effect.

unlike some, i can't spend 28 hours a day here monitoring the school yard games.

will IS one of the best writers here, and is a tremendous asset to the movement. it would be sad for du to lose him. he is one of the things that sets us apart, and gives us much more credibility.

although we don't always agree, i, for one, REALLY appreciate his posts, his wisdom and his gift of composition. he can put it all together in a way that makes sense. that is a real talent. one thing our side really needs is the ability to communicate.

will rivers pitt can certainly do that. :grouphug: and :toast: to mr. pitt.

:shrug:

[TexasLawyer]

19. Maybe DU needs to control flame-baiters more effectively

Maybe more of us should be hitting the "alert" button.

There have been some latent and not-so-latent troll-types who seem to get away with harsh, offensive and non-constructive commentary. Ironically, some of the comment posted in this very thread would appear to qualify.

[stop the bleeding]

20. What is happening to this place

this completely sucks

[SoCalDem]

33. It's a natural outcome of rapid growth

For a pretty long time, DU was a "clubhouse" where lots of us came to hang out and grouse about the daily outrages. DU was our "therapy", and now our little clinic has gone HMO, with lots of new members. Because we have grown so much and there are so many new areas of participation, it's not unusual for me to see a person I have never seen before...with thousands of posts.. That's new. We used to congratulate each other for 500, 600, 700 etc, because we all pretty much KNEW each other..

Times change, and so do we.

Lots of us "oldtimers" don't post as much, because the "noise" level's gotten quite high lately and "comments" and "replies" are more accusatory than they used to be. Some may enjoy arguing online, but lots of people actually enjoy a polite discussion where an exchange of ideas happens, instead of just personal attacks and sly insults.

It's what has always separated the wheat from the chaff around here.. Lots of chaff lately..

Some of us do take sanity breaks from time to time, and there are lots of former LBN/GD posters hanging out in the lounge lately too. Perhaps they are trying to stay here and stay in touch with compadres, without the angry epithets. :shrug:

[MuseRider]

39. Do they still do the

700 club in the lounge? I remember that was kind of a deal and it was fun to "wear" around the 700 club logo.

It is certainly a different place than when I first came but then I was not nearly among the first.

Breaks are necessary for most of us from time to time.

[SoCalDem]

40. To a degree, but with the pages flying by, it's hard to keep track

:(

[ploppy]

48. What

SoCalDem said. Will Pitt is one of the reasons I keep coming to DU. Thanks for thinking, Will, and especially thanks for writing it down and letting us read it! :*

[davsand]

77. Amen to that one, SoCalDem!

DU has changed a lot over the years--sometimes good, sometimes not. I've cut back on my posting somewhat, and I know others that have too. It isn't any comment on the newbies, it just is what I have to do for my own sanity sometimes. When you stop to think about it, this is not terribly new stuff--those Green/Nader threads were pretty brutal right around the time of the selection, as were some of the threads in this last Presidential primary. We've had Bev Harris threads and Andy threads, and I'm not EVEN gonna get started on the Abortion threads or the Gay Marriage threads over the years...

It all seems to run in a cycle, and it always seems to level off after a while.

I've known Will for a long time now, and I hate the idea of his departure. Similarly, I've known a lot of other fine folks from here that have come and gone (and come again!) I can only hope that after a break Will can (and will) resume his activity here.

Regards, from one of the "old farts" of DU.



Laura

[SoCalDem]

79. Back atcha, Laura

:hi:

[stop the bleeding]

86. You guys are great

and this is one of the MANY reasons I come to DU:grouphug:

[SoCalDem]

88. We like you too

:loveya:

[davsand]

114. There are a lot of fine folks here.

No matter the fluctuations in the "signal to noise ratio" I never have lost sight of the fact that DU is mostly populated with a lot of really fine folks who want to make a difference. I do think that part of what we are seeing right now is a frustration level that has been building for a long time, and it is manifesting here because it is a "safe" place to vent. There's an old saying about you always hurt the ones you love, and I do think it manifests here some days.

A lot of people are new to the entire political process--they are just getting involved (THAT by itself makes me so very happy!) and when you first start down this road it can feel just awful at times. Some days you think you are getting your butt hammered without mercy and then something will happen to make you realize that change is not an overnight thing. Political action and substantive change is not a quick thing, no matter how hard you work. You finally learn to celebrate the wins and shake off the bad times, or else you burn out.

I can't tell you how much it excites me to see this kind of energy and passion--even if it is a little uncomfortable some days!

Regards!


Laura

[stevedeshazer]

154. Bingo!

Well said. I lurked in 2001, posted a lot in 2002-2005. I don't post much anymore, I mostly just read.

You're right about the new folks who post here. It doesn't take long to see who has her/his head on straight. :)

I'm not concerned, I'm excited that we are growing. Pains while doing so are normal.

[ulysses]

195. you said "farts"

:D :hi:

[ScreamingMeemie]

242. You got it SoCal...

I've seen that as well. A few weeks ago I was just thinking about this very topic. There was a time I posted 80/20 GD/Lounge..now I would say it's the opposite. It appears that some only wish to post when they are directly contrary to the opinion voiced.

[annabanana]

62. I agree with SoCalDem...

There have been waves of nastiness that wash over DU periodically.

I don't know if it's due to the influx of trolls, or the influx of the uninitiated, who haven't done enough reading to understand how laid-back (comparatively) DU is when compared to other boards...

Inother words.. this too shall pass. I just hunker down, use a lot of "ignore" and keep reading.

[bobbieinok]

24. why do we let the troublemakers lead us around by the nose??????

maybe those of us who believe in the potential of DU for changing minds and changing the country could PM each other the names of those we feel are troublemakers and we could each post once each time one posts and calmly point out how divisive they are being.......OR put them on ignore

any time a discussion group gets really large troublemakers will descend to destroy

[Robbie Michaels]

26. Don't Leave, Will

I've always admired your writing and your perspective on issues. It would be a shame if you left, but I understand where you're coming from.

[gordianot]

27. Most of the time I agree with Mr. Pitt.

A few times I do not. He needs to stay. Along with H20 and Octafish he writes the best threads. Please Mr. Pitt stay.

[Catherine Vincent]

29. If he is leaving, it's only a break.

That's it.

[KAT119]

30. PLEASE DON'T LEAVE US WILL!!! WE NEED YOUR TRUTHS AND INSIGHTS!!

[shireen]

31. this is just silly ....

Mr. Pitt, I missed the controversy that created this thread.

Why do you care what others think? Are these people personally important to you in some way? If they are, sure, it's worth getting upset about it because you personally care about how they regard you.

But if they're total strangers or aquaintances, so what? Just brush it off, and keep fighting your good fight.

This is a place to share opinions. Some will agree. Some will disagree. Big deal.

[Proud2BAmurkin]

32. He's leaving again?

Nooooooooooo!

[meisje]

43. LOL

[Pastiche423]

87. I've forgotten how many times he's left

Not to worry, Pitt groupies. He always comes back.

[lvx35]

35. You rock Will. Sorry for not saying it more.

You and a guy named BullGooseLooney have made some of my favorite posts around here. I thank you for that a lot. Its cool if you need to take a break from DU, sometimes its really good to get away from the computer in general for awhile, there is a lot out there in the world to do. But don't give up the cause buddy! I've been smacked here for my faith, my opinion on voting fraud, you name it, but I won't let that keep down, if nothing else because I always know the smackers could be republican shills, and I refuse to let them win. But do what you need to do, and know that you have made a LOT of people grateful, though maybe we haven't said it enough :(

[Media_Lies_Daily]

36. Will, don't let the naysayers and flamers drive you off.....

...you are one of those that I count on to set the record straight when unreliable and/or false crap gets thrown at DU.

The posters that attacked you, Jason Leopold, and Raw Story the other day were way out of line, IMHO.

[Jigarotta]

37. was it that Target letter question?

as I haven't really been up on the RS/truthout reports on it, I can't really say, just that Will was asked about the discreptancy of some sort.

If that is the reason he is upset, then I don't understand.
Was the question ever answered, btw?

sorry to jump in when I obviously don't know all the details and time frame, but hey, Ican ask, can't I?

[immoderate]

38. Will Pitt should stay. (Though nobody is indispensable.)

I've been here since early in 2001. One of my first posts was a comment that I always learn things from Will Pitt. Will is an important voice here, and I would hate to see him leave. As a leader, he should put himself above the fray.

--IMM

[Booster]

46. I always learn things from Will also, and if he leaves he's caving

to a very, very small group of people who don't appreciate him as much as the rest of us do. Ignore them, Will, and keep posting. I love everything I've ever read that you've written - you're a treasure to DU.

[notadmblnd]

41. you know there are operatives that come here and their only purpose

is to sow discontent. The question we need to ask I think is, are we big enough to ignore them or do we let them win by bullying and causing us to leave?

[enigmatic]

42. I'm not Pitt's biggest fan

But that's a matter of personal taste, not how I see him as a writer (he's an excellent one), and an activist (ditto).

And I've never doubted his sincerity either, and his standing up for Raw Story was a class thing to do (and the right thing as well).

We need more William Pitts (And Raw Story) on DU, not less. I'll stand with him.

[papau]

113. I agree - and I like Will as a person! :-)

:-)

[RUMMYisFROSTED]

45. Hilarious.

:popcorn:

[Dr Fate]

47. I mostly dig him- I hope he stays. n/t

n/t

[Minnesota Libra]

49. The link didn't give enough detail as to what all went on so I'm not.....

....even going to pretend to know exactly what happened to bring on this particular situation.

I do know, however, this is not the first time William Pitt has threatened to leave DU. People sent me links to threads at DU and I was also one of those who lurked in the background before actually joining DU. So I became fairly well acquainted with names at DU by the time I joined and William Pitt was definitely a well known name.

Yes, Pitt has written some really good articles and I'll bet he's written at least one or two that he wishes he hadn't written too. Hey, none of us are perfect, least of all me so I'm trying to be as nonjudgmental as possible here.

That much having been said though none of us are god and none of us are irreplaceable. William Pitt is good at what he does but there are other William Pitts out there just waiting for their chance to shine. Nuff said!!

[BooScout]

50. Did I read it wrong?

I read it that he may take a break from this place....did I miss where it said he was leaving?

In the world of message boards a break can be a good thing. If it starts to get to you, it can be a good thing to walk away from it for a while. Then come back when you feel like taking up the banner again.

[leftstreet]

67. You read it right.

Taking a break.

This thread is silly.

[BooScout]

76. Well why in the world is everyone going off the deep end?

People need to read the freaking link. He 'may' take a break. It's not the end of the world. So much drama.........so little reality. :eyes:

[leftstreet]

85. In his own words...

From the link:

This is a good thread, kpete, and well-meaning in every sense. But I have been here too long and seen too much shit (and, to be fair, caused too much of my own shit) to believe this place can or will ever rise to the level of integrity that people like you bring to it every day. The same reasons why this place will never reach its potential are the same reasons why the Left spends so much time on the outside looking in politically. You would think we wouldn't have to learn the same hard lessons over and over again, but you'd be wrong.

It has been said by many long-time posters that the healthiest thing one can do from time to time is take a break from this place. I seldom do, and when I have tried in the past, I always get sucked back in. But I think the time has come for a real one. I have too much to deal with in my personal life, too many pages to edit for my next book, too many real enemies in the Bush administration and congress to fight, and too many good Democrats to help get elected in '06, to spend my energy here fighting people that - in any sane, stable community - would be natural allies.

In other words, I have better things to do with my time. Guess what, kpete: you and everyone who agrees with you also have better things to do with your time. If there are people here who want to turn this forum into a boneyard for jackals and phony-tough flame-warriors, you should let them. You can't stop it, no matter how hard you try, and your skills and passion are far better served in a place where you don't have to ask people on the same side to stop tearing each other apart.

[snooper2]

101. That's what happens ...

when people become addicted.....

http://www.internetaddiction.com/

[katinmn]

140. Thanks! Now I don't have to leave the desk to get help!

[Wrinkle_In_Time]

175. Have you not seen the DUDQ in action before? n/t

[klook]

261. Yep, taking a break

I hadn't seen Will's post that prompted this thread. Then after posting a response myself, and reading the 900 or so other messages on this vital topic, I checked his journal to wax nostalgic about what I'd be missing if he left. Then I read that he said he was in need of a break.

So, yes, this is basically a tempest in a teapot. I still stand by my post, but I probably wouldn't have posted to this thread if I'd realized Will was just talking about taking a sabbatical. Still, I don't see the point of the personal attacks some have made in this thread. I guess I just don't have much of an emotional attachment to DU. I've just never thought of DU (or any other public online forum) as a group of my friends, or enemies. It's just a place to exchange ideas with like-minded people and to discuss ways to fix our government (and a couple of other topics now and then). I have plenty of friends (and a couple of enemies) in the three-dimensional world.

[hfojvt]

51. it is like deja vu all over again

again. Either a glitch in the Matrix or the sentinels are after me again. Unfortunately, DU does not have near enough WilliamPitt any more, but probably I should add truthout to my required reading instead of relying on it to be cross-posted to DU.
Mr. Pitt is kind of a singularity at DU, changing the space time of the community, if you know what I mean. This is not meant to be negative at all, just an observation.
I kinda wish I had more to do too, although I am about to start running around for the next hour prior to going to work for eight hours, but I wish I was doing more to help us win in November. Something besides mailing checks, which is the request I always get.
The county committee has been meeting since January, but we have done nothing, and again, we are going to be trying to raise funds first. Then we are supposed to be calling and knocking on doors, but I am not good at that.
Anyway William, if you need a free research assistant or proof reader, I kinda have some time on my hands.

52. ignore button - use it, love it, be it (sound familiar)

<----- Use it, love it, be it.

[uppityperson]

53. Take a break and come on back please.

While I don't always agree with Will, it would be a shame to lose him. Peace Will.

[johnnie]

54. If you leave Will, can I have your parking space?

:P

I kid of course.

I hope you/he doesn't leave DU, I enjoy most of what he has to say. It's obvious that there are people who try to bring him down, but that should be no reason to leave. I think the majority likes to have Will here if you agree with everything he says or not.

[sheelz]

55. DU and it's members often go through growing pains.

[populistdriven]

57. William Pitt please stay! I'll help keep the asshats at bay

[Laurab]

59. I'm adding my voice, and not just for Will Pitt

although he's one of my favorites, but for the others who have been attacked as well. I don't know Will at all, but he's surely one of the reasons I come here, and one of the reasons I stayed. I think I know enough about him though to know he'll realize that he can't let a vocal minority chase good and dedicated DU'ers away. He's a fighter, I know that much.

Someone said "there will be other Will Pitt's", well, that's great, but I kinda like the one we have. Will, your presence here is very important to many people. Just ignore the bullshit, and keep on fighting the good fight, please.

[90-percent]

63. Please stay Will

Don't let the actions of a few spoil it for the vast majority of us that appreciate having you here.

-85% Jimmy

[porphyrian]

64. Popularity makes you a big target.

I don't buy that he's really leaving. I doubt he can go a week without a painful jones bringing him back.

[stepnw1f]

68. No Fucking Waaaaaay....

WTF!!!!

[stop the bleeding]

90. Yeah I also read that liveoakstx left as well

I guess she was getting flamed for her clips, which btw was a great service to DU.

I am going by second hand information, I was not there to witness the flaming myself but this is what DU'er liberlnurse said in another thread this weekend.


http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=364x1051545#1056669

[stepnw1f]

111. I Was Away Most of This Weekend

This shit has got to stop... these people are a huge value to us all. Me thinks we have a Freeper infestation...

[redwitch]

69. don't go Will

You are a very big part of the heart and soul of DU. It would be a lesser place without you. -redwitch

[rodeodance]

237. I concur.

[leftstreet]

71. Shouldn't the thread title be changed to "Please don't take a break?"

:shrug:

In the link you provided he states he is taking a break.

This thread is silly.

[LittleClarkie]

72. All I can think of is a Star Trek quote

"If you can't take a little bloody nose, maybe you oughtta go back home and crawl under your bed. It's not safe out here. It's wondrous, with treasures to satiate desires both subtle and gross; but it's not for the timid."

But there is a danger of taking this place too seriously. It's only a message board, after all.

[Jack Rabbit]

73. I support Will Pitt

Even when I don't agree with him, he contributes greatly to DU.

Thanks for all you've done for us, Will. We look forward to your continued contribution.

[timber84]

74. The sports forum will never be the same!!!!!

Just another small reason to stay!

[dogday]

75. As I told liveoaktx that night she was flamed

If you go, they win... Don't let them win... It's only words, on a public forum....

There is nothing anyone on this board can say to drive me away, nor do I ever hit the ignore button... I know what is important and what is shit and so should you.....

[MazeRat7]

80. If true, I hope Will reconsiders, if not ... well take care and good luck.

As I am always reminded.... nobody is indispensable there will be others to fill the void.

MZr7

[klook]

81. Will is an excellent writer and a strong contributor to DU

and I hope he sticks around. (This is the first I've heard that he was considering leaving.)

I first heard of this guy on Democracy Now! radio a few years ago, when Amy Goodman interviewed him as "William Rivers Pitt." I instantly recognized him as an impassioned, intelligent voice for the Good Side. When I stumbled upon DU some time later, I was very impressed to find that he was a member. Then as I read more and more posts, I realized this was a group with many members of that caliber, and many more who may not have the writing chops but who have equally valid and important things to say.

Will doesn't go out of his way to be buddies with everybody, and he doesn't go out of his way to attack people or post divisive diatribes, either. He sometimes sets people straight when he thinks they're out of line. (And sometimes they need it.)

He has an ego. OK, don't most of us here, if we're honest with ourselves? And can we agree that an ego plays no small part in stimulating people to put fingers to keyboard and express their opinions? And is that not one of the great things about being alive?

I may not always agree with Will, but I always want to see what he has to say. Sometimes I already agree with him, sometimes he persuades me to his point of view, and sometimes I still disagree with him after seeing what he has to say. So be it. That seems pretty normal to me. I'll still look forward to reading his essays and articles and offhand responses.

If you're reading this Will, count me as another who values your participation here and hopes you stick around. (And it doesn't hurt that you said recently the last CD you'd listened to all the way through was "Kind of Blue" by Miles Davis. Excellent choice.)

[SidDithers]

82. Too many freakin' Red Sox fans here anyway...

:evilgrin:

Seriously, tho, I won't beg for Will to remain. He's a big boy and can make his own decisions. I do, however, appreciate his thoughtful words in the post which was in the OP link.

"For myself, I apologize to anyone who felt that my support for Raw Story equalled support for a column that unnecessarily (and incoherently) attacked a group of good people. That was not my intention, and in retrospect, I should have made that clear from the jump."

Will has always been a straight shooter, and I look forward to reading more of his writing, if not here, then certainly at truthout.

Sid

[FlaGranny]

83. I must have missed it - are those

jealous guys back who hate Will for his success?

I also hope he doesn't leave. Will is an original DUer and has always been one of my heroes for five years now. He took a risk by leaving his profession and became a successful writer - I'm a little jealous of him myself. No one will ever please everyone, but the Will haters are the ones we could do without around here. Of course, Will isn't the only one they like to dig their teeth into. It's a shame, really, that people who call themselves liberals and Democrats do not live up to their labels. Many here are so totally intolerant of anyone who disagrees with them that you "take your life in your hands" to post sometimes.

[SmokingJacket]

91. If Pitt needs a break, he needs a break.

Sometimes -- as much as I love DU, and I DO love DU! -- I think sitting at the computer sniping at each other saps our energy for real change. I'm definitely better informed because of DU, and I think I've become a smarter arguer because of it, but I wonder if I should spend less time here and more time in the real world. It's hard, because there's always someone here who will agree with me -- unlike out my front door! -- and I just like being here.

But... I don't know. There's so much spinning wheels, preaching to the converted, and bickering over details... and I hate to say it, time wasting.

DU would be less interesting without Will, if only because his big, essay-like posts usually cause a lot of thinking and posting. I would miss them, and maybe I'd be here less too, but frankly, I could also use a break.

[Uncle Joe]

96. Your talent and insight is most appreciated by me Will,

keep up the good fight and hang around, things are just beginning to get interesting.:hi:

[robertpaulsen]

98. Agree or disagree, I always read a William Pitt thread.

But this is not about agreeing or disagreeing. This is about impugning his integrity as a journalist and an editor. And that is something I would never do, no matter how heated the disagreement.

Come back soon, Will. Your threads will be missed by this DUer.

[arwalden]

100. Actually, How Can Anyone Assume To Know What's Best For Someone Else?

I'm 100% in favor of letting every "sane, stable" person make whatever personal decisions that they feel are best for themselves.

[autorank]

105. Do what I did when I thought I actually had to leave for non pissy reasons

Write a nice good bye. Sincere, how much you like the joint, etc.

Publish your "buddy list" in the good bye.

Then don't leave (as I didn't need to, as it turned out).

You'll have friends forever with the buddies. I still know who they are and
we say hello from time to time. It was great.

Pitt ... patience ... don't leave.

[Ian David]

106. I have an idea... How about if he just posts and doesn't read?

Mr. Pitt, I look forward to your posts and will miss you if you go.

[mmonk]

109. Dang

Miss a few hours and or days and Will Pitt is thinking of leaving for awhile. Though I didn't care all that much for the piece about atheists being extremists, it sure wasn't that big of a deal, especially to start hammering Raw Story which I respect and read all the time. Everyone needs a chill pill. Will Pitt needs to frequent here and post and share Truthout and the PDA and Leopold and Lala need to hang around and Rawstory needs to continue being covered around here.

eom

[DanCa]

110. Willl dont feel so alone everyone gets stoned :D

Will don't let a bunch of 13 year old net terrorist push you around. Just put them on ignore like I do. This is coming from someone who gets it both on t he left and on the right.
:hug: Peace brother if I can help IM me.

[Misskittycat]

115. Please don't leave, Will

I depend on you (and others) for key information and opinion. Please don't let a small number of people deprive us of your insight.

[WI_DEM]

117. I don't want him to leave either, but I'm not going to beg anybody

to stay.

I've seen too many people who write "I'm leaving DU" ridiculed--people saying, "Don't let the door hit you in the ass", ect--why should this be any different? Mr. Pitt is a certain celebrity around here and an excellent writer. If other posters are giving him grief it is something he can alert on and let the good moderators handles. If people are disagreeing with him on issues he writes about (I've never noticed this to be widespread) then hopefully some honest debate will come out of it.
If he stays, great! if he leaves, I wish him well.

[Catherine Vincent]

121. If you think about it....

It's a kind gesture. "Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out". In other words, they don't want the person to get hit, so they are telling them to be careful with the door.

/end ponder :-)

[shadowknows69]

126. The whole idea of "Celebrity status" on an open forum

makes me uneasy, not sure why. Not taking away from Mr. Pitt's obvious talents in any way in fact I think he'd agree with me.

[Vidar]

120. Please don't leave, Will.

[Rex]

122. It is a public forum, a horrible place if you ask me.

If he leaves then someone will step up and take his place, there are a lot of great writers here on DU. I seriously doubt he will be gone for long if he does go. FWIW, sounds like he got a raw deal and some backstabbing goin on. Evil shit.

[tinfoilinfor2005]

123. Will has thousands of friends here. He wouldn't abandon them

over a few who aren't. Don't be silly.

[devilgrrl]

124. Will, don't let all the undercovers get you down!

And jeers to the mods for letting them stay! :mad:

[w8liftinglady]

125. Will Pitt is the reason I joined DU

I felt very alone when I was googling anti-war websites,after my son went to Iraq.I clicked on a DU thread started by Will,and was hooked.I owe my sanity to him in many ways.

[SoCalDemocrat]

127. Umm so what's the problem?

So Pitt didn't like the criticism so he wants to leave?

Fine.

I thought he was a professional writer. He should be able to handle criticism of his positions without throwing a fit and threatening to leave. This is not the first time I've seen one of these threads where Pitt doesn't like how he was handled on these forums and threatens to leave, so forgive me if I seem bereft of tolerance.

Truthout is a great site by the way, #1 on my reading list.

[shadowknows69]

131. I have to agree with you SoCal

I love Pitt's writing too. I thought I was prone to quoting the Grateful Dead but wow. However if there is a pattern of him throwing tantrums to generate "Don't Go!" threads (which I admit I don't read enough to make an informed judgement on) then I will lose a measure of respect for him. Art/writing/music are extremely subjective things and it's magic when you find others to tune in to your vibe. All artists should value their fans greatly and worry not about their critics.

[NightOwwl]

130. Oh puleeze...

no one poster is more important than the other. If he wants to leave, he's free to go.

[benburch]

132. Don't go, Will

Because if you do, they will all flame MEEEEE! :scared: :scared: :scared:

[oasis]

133. Will's not one to turn his back on so many pals. We'll hear from him.

[YankeyMCC]

135. He should do whatever seems best to him

the worst thing would be for him to stay and perhaps get 'burnt out' to the point of negatively affecting other aspects of his life. I've only been here about a year and half and my RL schedule sort of forces longish gaps and I'm sure that's the only reason I haven't taken a purposeful break as I've had to do on other boards.

I don't always agree with Mr Pitt but I often do and I think he's a valuable contributor to this little online community we have here. Seriously and his absence would be felt surely.

But better he take a break and come back with all his wit, energy and talent than try and stay and cause himself and perhaps others unnecessary and useless grief.

[sendero]

136. Jesus ..

... if I let personal insults bother me I'd have been gone long ago.

I like Mr. Pitt, and agree with him most of the time. But hey, I've never seen a point in "I'm gonna leave" threads.

If you are leaving, leave. If you think that you can work in a criticism-free zone just by threatening to leave, grow up.

And if people makes posts that are excessively personal or nasty, hit the alert. That's what it is for, and I find the mods do a pretty good job of deleting only posts that need to be deleted.

Anyone who thinks it is rough here hasn't been around. This is about as civil as a discussion forum about politics gets.

And one more thing, nobody should be cowed into not speaking their mind (sans personal flames) by the insipid bleating of those who call for "unity" or "no circular firing squads" or "not eating our own" or any of that nonsense. Self-criticism inside any organization is absolutely critical for it's success. Don't believe me? Look at the poster-boy for "nobody disagrees with me", Bush**, and see how that's working out for him.

137. makes sense

this is pretty civil compared to some forums or even real life. But I like to read Will, so selfishly I hope he doesn't leave, even for a short time.

[sendero]

138. Me either...

... Pitt is a great DUer, I don't want him to go anywhere. I don't want him to threaten to leave either :)

[Fovea]

139. Dear Will

There is only one reason to play politics with the infantile- and that is to prevent the infantile from being the only people playing politics.

Take a vacation, let your keyboard cool down, and then come back. The others here can shoulder your weight for a while. But do come back.

[GreenPoet64]

141. Dear Will,

I rarely post, but I read everything you write. You are appreciated. I don't know if this makes a difference, but I would hate to see you leave.
Sincerely,
GreenPoet64

[GCP]

142. This is such a pathetic thread

I've lost count of the times Pitt has threatened to leave. I'm sick of people kissing his ass and begging him to stay.
Let him go if that's what he wants - I doubt he really does want - he's got too many sycophants around here.

143. oohh sounds like jealousy

[GCP]

144. I know Pitt personally - do you?

Not jealous in the least, just sick of all the sycophancy that happens every time he threatens to leave - and if you've been around DU as long as I have, it's quite a few times now.

[smirkymonkey]

165. There is something about all this gushing that doesn't sit well

with me, it seems so sheeplike or something. I don't think anybody, no matter how much they contribute should be deified this way. Do we all now have to "qualify" in order to participate in this forum? There are a LOT of people here with important things to say, it's just that many of them aren't on "The Board of Directors" so they are frequently ignored or belittled. There is something about this whole thing that just smacks of High School.

I also think that if people are going to leave or take a break they should just do it and not make a fuss about it. It seems like when people do this they are just fishing for strokes and accolades. A lot of people get fed up and take breaks without announcing it.

[johnnie]

146. I don't think he threatened to leave

I think the OP was just asking him to stay if he was thinking of leaving. Did this thread really bum you out that much?

[GCP]

149. Yes because I've seen it all so many times before

I'm even coming to believe he threatens to leave when he needs an ego-boost.
Just my 5 cents.
If I've offended anybody I'm sorry. Just put it down to my being old and curmudgeonly! :)

[mondo joe]

150. He didn't threaten to leave. But if you're so sick of it, and if you've

seen it all before, why bother with the thread at all?

[johnnie]

152. It's cool

You didn't offend me. :) I just feel bad for the OP because the person has only been here a little over a month and probably has the best of intentions.

[GCP]

155. You're a much nicer person than I am, Johnnie!

:hi:

[stevedeshazer]

157. Thanks for weighing in with such a profound post

After all, I've kept all your meaningful posts in my own DU file.

For some reason, when I looked them up today, that file was empty. :(

[GCP]

159. ROTFLMAO

:rofl:

[The Straight Story]

177. I was gonna leave once over something real stupid

But I did not start a thread on it, I emailed skinner. He set me straight (I was drunk and depressed at the time).

If you want to leave, no need to start a thread on it. Leave or stay. If you want to leave, no one is stopping you. Hell I asked Skinner to tombstone me I was so bummed, but he didn't and emailed me back - but said he would if that is what I really wanted.

I am glad I did not take my silly issues out into the forum - would have done zip. If someone wants to leave, just email the admin, tell them you are done with your account, and move on...

[cry baby]

228. Will was replying to a thread, he didn't start one.

If you'll notice, he is post #72 or somewhere thereabouts on a thread started by Kpete.

[corbett]

158. What She Said!

I'm in exactly the same boat with the same feelings. You're the best and we're much worse off without you!

[BrightKnight]

160. leaving his post in the middle of a war

Volunteer or not, that is just done. He is a captain and not a peon.

Idiots and trolls don't merit consideration. What if Thomas Payne stopped writing because some King George loyalist insulted him?

[tlsmith1963]

161. Please Don't Go!

It's a very sad & frustrating time for this country, & people are on edge. This is why the arguing is going on. But it shows that *we* are the intelligent ones. Would you rather be with the blind sheep Republicans who all think the same & won't stand up to the extremist neocons in their own party? Being a blind sheep doesn't take much intelligence. Please stay here! We may argue, but it's because we care so much about what is happening to America. I really enjoy reading your posts here & would hate to see you go just because of the arguing. You add to the intelligence here!

Tammy

[cally]

162. I support Will. The snarkiness of some posters

offends me. I know we all need breaks and I hope Will thrives. I rarely get involved in these flamewars but I hope all who've been attacked on this site know that most of us support them. :grouphug:

[patricia92243]

163. He's threatened to quit before. It was when "Ask the Administrator" was

still alive. I remember all Skinner said was "Goodbye" I thought that was hilarious and said exactly what needed to be said.

[incapsulated]

211. Man, do we need that forum back, lol.

In addition, Pitt loved to post there, heh.

[JuniperLea]

164. Noooooo!

I'm such a HUGE Will Pitt fan!

Oh shit... I remember a week or so ago I disagreed with something he said... no flames though!


Well, this sucks for us...



SOB!

[threadkillaz]

167. "There's no need for you to be worrying about all those people,

You never see those people anyway."



http://www.lyricsdomain.com/7/grateful_dead/morning_dew.html

[DisgustedTX]

169. More drama from the queen.

It's a wish that never comes true.

[cheezus]

173. In my expeience

a great writer but one heck of a jerk to people on this board.

[MaggieSwanson]

174. femmedem speaks for me...

Please don't leave, Will.

Maybe I didn't comment on your posts because they were brilliant and anything I would add as a reply would seem like fanclub bullshit. And maybe I quoted you everywhere, and dragged my husband to the computer time and time again to show him what you had written - the words that I was struggling to come up with, the feelings I wanted to express that you so effortlessly posted here.

Maybe you mean a lot to a great many of us on DU, and maybe we didn't tell you before for one reason or another.

Maybe you'll stay after all, if we tell you now?

-Maggie

[bonito]

176. Hay Will, Don't bail on on me either

Sanity is rare, especially when your on the fringe, and can recognize it, hang in here! peace

[incapsulated]

178. Usually, when people on DU pull a drama queen act

And threaten to take their marbles and go home, and diss DU'ers on top of it, people here tell them not to let the door hit their asses on the way out.

Pitt gets a worship thread. Nice how that works for him. I won't be surprised when he comes back, which he will.

[LittleClarkie]

180. DUDQ-DED

Democratic Underground Drama Queens - Dramatic Exit Division

I've been on enough message boards to be somewhat sick of "Goodbye Cruel World" posts and the inevitable "Oh no, don't go!" chaser. I don't much care who does it, it's equally annoying.

[incapsulated]

188. Agreed, but...

This thread is evidence some here are actually rewarded for such behavior.

[sheelz]

189. LOL

I thought it was Democratic Underground Dairy Queen...milking it for all it's worth. It's Blizzard time.

[UTUSN]

181. Hahahah HAH HAH!

I might as well say it all. 200 followers. Breaks the rules ----ALL THE TIME. Very pissanty-------AND "piss elegant". When followers say they didn't know what to THINK until he showed them the light, well...

[UTUSN]

182. Why would there be 44-danged recommendations for a family discussion?

[Goblinmonger]

183. Sounds

like the dittoheads.

[UTUSN]

186. Who?-------me? or the 200? n/t

[Goblinmonger]

190. Not you n/t

[johnnie]

185. Can you show me the link where Will says he is leaving?

I didn't see that one.

[incapsulated]

187. It's in the OP

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=364&topic_id=1056736&mesg_id=1059497

[RetroLounge]

184. Tainted Love

RL

[w4rma]

191. William Pitt rocks. I hope you stay. (nt)

[Mr_Spock]

192. How can you post on a political web site with thousands of people without

getting into occasional jousting matches with people?

If I ignored every person who had a bad day here, there'd be lots of great opinions that I'd be missing out on.

It sucks when you are a well known person here and something goes bad.

One person changes their web site format and people complain, then that person leaves.

Another posts a story that has some issues because it's voracity can't be proved, sounds like the perfectionist crew is looking for a someone to tar and feather.

So what? Do people think they have to craft their reputation so carefully here that they are ruined forever if they lose their cool at some point or make a mistake?

I like people that lose their cool or make mistakes or whatever other fault exposed - it shows that they are passionate. It shows that they are human. Most all will forgive and forget in a short period of time.

Big deal. Let's move on...

[SPKrazy]

193. I Enjoy Your Posts

but if you want to leave, then you cerainly can do that.

I don't even know if you are really leaving.

I would hope that you don't.

[Skittles]

194. WHO is ragging on WILLIAM????

I WILL KICK THEIR ASS

[johnnie]

196. .

:scared:

[Mr_Spock]

213. dot did it?

;)

[Goblinmonger]

207. People who felt his defense of Raw Story,

after publishing a bigoted editorial, was something he shouldn't have done.

[Ksec]

197. I enjoy reading Mr Pitts .

I think he writes well and I enjoy his thought process and the way he wraps his mind around a story. It would be a shame to lose him. Lately DU has become a minefield you have to tiptoe around in. Not particularly enjoyable IMO. I dont find myself here quite as often for that reason. Too many people holding grudges if you happen to disagree on something - and I cant keep up with who likes this or that or whos pissed at me today . I dont know how anyone can expect to agree with anyone else all the time. Its just not possible.

[SeattleGirl]

205. I echo the sentiments of folks who don't want you to leave, Will.

I PMd you once, quite some time ago, about how much I enjoy your writing, and that is still true today. I do hope you will reconsider, and not let the rat bastards win. Stay, please.

[Goblinmonger]

206. Dear Dennis Miller

Please don't leave the party. I don't know what we would do without you and your intelligent humor. If you left, we would all be lost.

[lonestarnot]

214. Now I am just pissed! What in the hell happened. The reference link

didn't explain shit. I will miss William Pitt. I enjoyed his posts. What is this place coming to? I still enjoy coming here, but if quality continues to slip, I may also make an exit........ :rofl:



I can't... I'm addicted.

[dysfunctional press]

215. if somebody has a problem with an individual poster-

isn't that what the "ignore" feature is for?

and it works on as well on will pitt as on anyone.

[shadowknows69]

216. "The monsters are due on Maple Street"

Rod Serling would be proud.

[pacalo]

217. I read a couple of posts ragging on Will...

I can tell you that their rants failed to sway me to their way of thinking about Will; if anything, their rants made me think less of them. Whenever I see Will Pitt's name on DU, it gets my attention because he's the voice of reason & I have respect for what he has to say. Whether you agree or disagree with Will's opinions, no one can dispute that he's a fair person. To rag on him, particularly by top-posting for optimal exposure, is the epitome of unfairness & below-the-belt treatment toward someone who deserves our appreciation for the valuable insight & information that he provides us.

I'll miss Will, but I don't blame him for being angry. Too bad some people can eat their own out of nothing more than envy. I've seen it happen to others who worked hard to supply DU with political videos & breaking news.

[psychopomp]

218. Deja vu

Didn't we go through this a little more than two years ago? IIRC, Mr. Pitt did not post for a couple of months but came back.

I would understand if he did not come back this time.

[troubleinwinter]

219. Will Pitt is a high-profile person. I would have expected

some thicker skin. If he aint got that kind of hide, then:

'Just be well, Will. Never mind us. We will carry on nonetheless, with you having gone away.'

[Singular73]

220. But He's the Dont Give Up guy, isnt he?

[hwmnbn]

222. William Pitt, don't you DARE leave!!!! ......

I know I can read you on Truthout, but that is your finished product. I enjoy reading about your thought processes as you formulate your columns.

You try stuff out on us sometimes and that is what I enjoy. I know there are all kinds of people here on DU, but there's only one you.

I'm just really asking you to stick around, we'll be good. O8)

[jus_the_facts]

223. Don't be fooled.....William Pitt is E V I L.....

Muahahahahahaha!!!

[Swamp Rat]

224. Take a break Will Pitt!

... then get your ass back here!

The Lizards are still in charge and we need you!:D

[usregimechange]

225. I endorse this message.

[CountAllVotes]

226. don't you DARE leave Will Pitt!

My God, the DU wouldn't be the DU without YOU.

We need you here, we :loveya: here and you are part of what makes the DU the DU!

Please don't leave Will! If you leave, many may follow in your footsteps.

Don't abandon us now, especially at such a critical time!

Thank you for reading this Will Pitt! :patriot: you are and we all know it and I am for one very proud of YOU!

P.S. Learn to use the "ignore" button, it does work well! }(

:dem: :kick:

[garthranzz]

227. Every Voice of Reason Belongs In Here

G-d knows there are few enough of them out there.

[ZombieNixon]

229. Mr. Pitt, Will, if I may.

I do not know if you are in fact considering leaving DU. I would sincerely hope not. Your political and journalistic talents aside, I want you to know how much I appreciate you. Let me provide some context. For those of you who don't go in the Lounge much, I've been having a really difficult time. I had to dump my girlfriend for cheating on me. Worse, she was a long time close, close friend of eight years (near-on half my life at this point), and having to cut that friendship out of my life has caused me the worst emotional pain of my life so far. This morning, I received a PM from Will Pitt, providing some much needed support and consolation in my period of heartbreak. Will (if you don't mind me calling you that), I cannot state how much I appreciate someone like you reaching out to me. In this time of troubles (big ones) for our country, it's easy to ignore the little issues people face every day, and let's face it, a breakup doesn't really mean much in the grand scheme of things, no matter how painful it is. I've always admired your work as a journalist and activist, but now I can rest assured that it's all not for show and fame. You really are a good person. I thank you. Please stay, DU and the world needs more people like you.

[Historic NY]

230. What !!!! say its not so........

I enjoy a good read, and you Sir are a good read.

[donheld]

231. Please don't go Will

We need you badly.

[RagingInMiami]

232. I read through all that just now and he's right

DU is a microcosm of why the democrats are losers.

[BigBearJohn]

233. Hey Asshole! You convinced me not to leave, you better stay or else!

[Brundle_Fly]

234. William

you were the reason I first came here, I love your work at truthout and the treat of checking your stories here from time to time before your final edits.

I haven't been around of late with the hockey playoffs eating all my time (canadian du'er here) but whomever is saying bunk or starting flame wars with you, please know, for each of them, there is easily hundreds of "US" who love your work and respect you. Don't Go.

Don't even think about it.

Signed the Masses, and Seth Brundle, your fan.

[Hekate]

235. Non Illegitimus Carborundum, Will Pitt

Take a vacation. Come back refreshed. You are a valued member of this community. :hug:

Hekate

[rman]

236. You leave, they win

Not necessarily the war, but surely this little battle.
It's one of the goals of the disruptors.

[sojourner]

267. amen to that!

I fully believe that the recent flame wars (there seem to have been several) are deliberate efforts to disrupt DU -- we've been a fairly potent force to reckon with, as internet activists go, so those with credibility and leadership qualities MUST be DIScredited, insulted, etc. to the point that they a) choose to leave; or b) are forevermore ignored; or c) are seen as the enemy by former compatriots.

[CrazyForKucinich]

238. First and only thing that Will Pitt ever said to me was...

"You're a political rookie."

If people are flaming him...it just goes to show that karma does exist.

[JNelson6563]

239. He's not going anywhere

Too much adoration here to leave. Like asking an alcoholic to please not leave the bar.

But I'm sure this thread will win you a few points. :puke:

[Coexist]

241. wow -

I used to respond to over-the-top posts. Now I hit reply, type out my response, hit the Back button on my browser and go on with my life.

Don't let them get under your skin like that - the rash they leave is icky.

[Mr.Green93]

243. "Shane. Shane! Come back! 'Bye, Shane."

The drama.

[sellitman]

244. Vacations are fine Will....but

We need writers of your caliber. Here's to hoping you are back in the saddle real soon!

[Vinca]

247. Mr. Pitt must be thin skinned.

He's made comments in his posts that have really pissed me off and I've said so. Personally, I don't care one way or the other whether he stays or goes. He's probably not the only "celebrity" on here.

[Thtwudbeme]

248. I don't know how long you have been on DU

but, Pitt threatens to leave once a year. Do you remember his big dramatic exit several years ago?

It's not that big of a deal; he's not going anywhere. He's addicted to DU, and this was his first, and remains, his most consistent audience. Yeah, I know, "Truthout" gets a bunch of readers, but this is where he tests his stuff and interacts with other members.

Stephanie

[femmedem]

259. Thanks for the reply . And I hope you're right

about him probably not leaving. I'm pretty new to DU, so I don't know any of the backstory. But regardless, if something here is leaving him or perhaps many other posters with a sour taste in their mouths, that's a big deal to me.

Now I'm going to 'fess up to you and anyone else who's still reading the thread: not only was I hoping to persuade Mr. Pitt to stay, but I was also hoping to draw attention to the reasons he's discouraged with DU, and maybe prompt some discussion about that. DU can be wonderfully informative and inspiring, but it can also be hate-filled and petty. Sometimes when I read the bickering and flaming on this board, I feel utterly discouraged about people's (in)ability to be respectful when they disagree. And I don't think it's a lot of freeper operatives, or trolls, or anything like that. I think it's us.

Stephanie, I apologize because this isn't so much a reply to you as to everyone in the thread, because I'm on dial-up and posting takes forever--but for the record: William Pitt certainly didn't ask me to start this thread, nor did he dramatically threaten to leave, or play the Drama Queen. And I've done him a disservice if my post led anyone to believe that he had.

Peace to all. Thanks everyone for replying.

[The Backlash Cometh]

251. I must have missed the threads.

Someone link me to the offensive thread.

[robcon]

253. Not another thread about a threatened "I'll leave DU"

This is getting ridiculous. There are too many self-absorbed DUers who think the threat will bring out support, pleads of "don't go!" etc.

My attitude: Go. Or don't go. Don't announce a threat to go.

[Vinnie From Indy]

254. Will Pitt we hardly knew ya

I plan on drinking a toast in your honor this evening.

[many a good man]

255. If Will really loved us he would post EVERY day!

DU is just like a great big typical American family-- but with far fewer assholes proportionally.

Will is like the Jewish grandmother to our diverse, rancorous little clan. I can't get enough of his cookin', but I reckon the old lady deserves a break every now and then.

[4_TN_TITANS]

258. Will don't go....

(avoiding all the side-squabbles)

I've certainly enjoyed your commentaries and DC insider's perspectives. Do what you must, but this is one lurker who would notice the loss.

[FredStembottom]

262. I've only been around a year and a half, I realize.....

but I read DU twice or more every day and contribute sporadically. Still, I am absolutely startled and amazed when one of these "I am leaving DU" threads come around.

I never have a clue that anything is going on. Even when I look back and "research" what the hell is going on - I still don't get it.

I mention all this because I think there is a reason why I don't get it - and humbly offer it up as a clue to how others might have a jollier time here.

I think the difference is that I don't work at a job with a computer. No, seriously! I have to shut the thing down and go off to my manual labor - outdoorsy - non-internets job for 8 hours....no matter what. When I come back at night both DU and I are different places (so to speak).

I also write music for synthesizers and samplers, repair old tube radios, read books from the 19th century, take car-trips, smoke the occasional cigar, do yoga and bike-ride!

So all I am saying is......bust up your day! Most people aren't as scattered as ME (ADHD is more like it!), flitting around to possibly TOO many activities, but make regular abrupt changes to your day!

And be sure to have a non-internets block of time EVERY day. Soon, you won't "get it" either.

......works for me anyways........ :yoiks:

[Bush_Eats_Beef]

268. Two kinds of people in the DU audience:

1). Well-educated, funny, passionate, well-rounded, articulate people who aren't afraid to challenge their fellow posters' thoughts and ideas but do so with respect, and...

2). Fucking CHILDREN.

Yes, there's a middle ground between the two extremes, but there are also people here who simply enjoy fucking with other people. That's the nature of the Internet. DU is very impressive and it's obvious that the Mods work very hard to make the site a positive experience for all, but people are always going to get in your face for no reason other than the fact that they enjoy getting in your face. They like fucking with you. They enjoy seeing you react.

Illegitimus non carborundum. That's how I handle these little pricks. Illegitimus non carborundum.

:patriot:

[Nothing Without Hope]

269. Will, don't let the nasty fringe wing drive you away. They're loud, but

they're far from the majority. The rest of us respect you and look forward to your posts. DU has its warts - some of them human, some of them format-related, and some of them censorship-related - but really, there's no other place like it. Your posts are part of its value.

[Fenris]

272. Locking.

At the request of Mr Pitt.

Thank you,
Fenris

GD Moderator