Moderator's Position

Yes, it is good to hear your position on this, Joseph. I have been in other
forums for other groups and, one of my own postings I had no idea was
controversial, drew a very harsh attack from someone else in the group,
which ultimately led to my dropping out (related to birdwatching in this
particular forum). The moderator of that group took the position similarly,
that it was okay to be controversial and have discussions, but not to attack
others or be mean-spirited. Nevertheless, I dropped out, because of
elitists in the group continually criticizing my amateur-level experience on
the topic.
What I have learned from these forums for serious folks, whether
birdwatching or genealogy, is that there must not only be room for the
beginner to learn from the more experienced, without being put-down for
their inexperience, but there must also be room for healthy discussion.
For, how else do we all learn and move forward in our searching, but by
connecting to one another, helping one another along, as is the purpose of
this group. When I connect with all of you in Nuestros Ranchos, I am
bringing you all into my home. I may be sitting here at the computer,
hundreds of miles away from many of you, clicking the Send button when I've
finished typing my message. But, the spirit of our shared journey in
uncovering and learning of our individual family histories, is not so much
to take pride in how different we are from one another, but more so to be
comforted by how alike we truly are.

Corrine Ardoin
Santa Maria, California