[Ross]

Originally Posted by goodgollymissmolly

This is probably a poor choice for my first post here, but here goes.

It seems to me that this item paints two groups with a pretty broad brush. It makes the very serious, long time, successful orchid enthusiast sound like a whining, social misfit and a relative newcomer like me sound like a stupid, financially weak, dishonest redneck.

I was fortunate enough to spend a great deal of last weekend in the company of the most awarded orchid personality in the history of the AOS. This good fortune occurred at a seminar about a different plant. I found this orchid royalty to be among the nicest, most helpful individuals I've ever met. He was more than willing to share information with everyone in a respectful manner.

As for me, I'm no thief or fool and I'm surely not under educated in either my manners or my profession. I'm not on a budget either.

I think the original message is truly unfriendly and false. Hopefully somebody will agree that the message is unnecessarily negative toward everyone.

THANK YOU for saying this! My feelings exactly! Welcome to the board.

I hesitated responding (well didn't hesitate - Ididn't respond) because of the tone. I thought the whole article was elitist and wondered what the author had in mind. Had someone violated his precious collection and ego? Had someone pilfered something? I just don't get the point here, and I am slightly offended by the tone of the article, especially in light of the background of posts offered before this article was posted. JMHO. Sorry for the rant.