IS THIS A CLIQUE OR AN OPEN FORUM...WHERE IS THE LOVE?
It seems like lately the Poetry forum has become very cliqueish
and sophmoric in it's treatment of it's fellow artist...We show
very little support for each other and when we do it's only people that are in our inner circle whatever that is about. I think it's very divisive and nonconducive to creativity. I am not going to let anyone steal my joy...I know other people feel the same way.
I try to read peoples work who have been posted with lots of
views but no replies. People want and need the feedback for
personal growth! Without it the Poetry forum is going to get
stale as all get out. I don't think that is what anyone wants.
So you don't like everything somebody writes...take time and
reply no matter how simple it might be. When the script flips on
you and no one is reading your work,ya gonna be pissed off too.
I just expected better from the members. Now I know I am pissing folks off by even saying this, just speaking from the heart and I don't like feeling uncomfortable in my own home.
Ya know?
Holla back?

EXCUSES,EXCUSES,EXCUSES...THAT'S ALL!
The fact is a group of people who have some clout have created
an elitist clique within your community and you all don't even have the balls to say anything. I for one would welcome any feedback...Some who are less experience may be overly sensitive, rejection, criticism are all a part of life. I simply felt that as a member this issue is seething under the surface and being talked about by the forum but not in Open forum...If it sucked...
Hell it sucked go back and rework it or delete it!
Being vulgar , well that seems to be the only things that sell
around here! So PEOPLE HAVE TIME TO WRITE THESE LONG
*** POEMS BUT THEY DON'T HAVE TIME TO READ...GIVE ME
A BREAK! And if I sound less than satisfied with ya answer
its cause it was simplistic!!!!!!!!!!!!:maddd:
So eventually it will die the slow death of apathy, cause the moderator's should be motivators as well. This is a major undertaking, if the people are not in place to administer to
the members then:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

Hello MsLuciousB,

You raise an interesting point. Actually, there was a poet that joined us a while back, their first post mentioned a clique and that they may not be accepted in it, but was posting anyway. I found it surprising to read, but they obviously had been visiting/reading awhile and it was their perception of things.

I'm not sure how to address this because I'm not aware of a "from the top down clique". The Moderators and I (as well as many of the other Family Members) welcome everyone who chooses to post here. We have a very loving Family, peaceful, kind and considerate. I'm not sure what I can do to assure you that no "special consideration" is given to any. The rules (few as they are) apply the same across the board.

You know MsLuciousB, there are always folk who tend to gravitate toward one another, become closer friends, interact away from the forum as well as on it ... and no doubt make it a point to read/respond to each others work. There's really not much I can do to discourage them from showing "special love" to each other (not that I'd want to).

I'm sure you've noticed too, that when a new Member joins and shares with us, they are rarely denied a warm and sincere welcome ... not only by me but by many of the other Family Members as well.

When the forum first opened and the Membership was smaller, I was able to post to each and every thread that was started. I simply can't do that anymore, but when I do have time to post to the work shared here, I usually go to the threads that have zero replies. I have some "favorite" poets, but I forsake posting to their work, because I want everyone to feel welcome ... and I know those poets are at home here ... so I post to the poets that are new and not yet receiving lots of love.

This is a "self-serve" kind of forum. People read and respond to what they want, helping themselves to whatever their heart desires. I can't make folk respond to each peace they read. Some aren't even Members, they come here to soak up the flow ... then leave ... adding another view to that peace.

In defense of the Moderators, these are volunteer positions, created primarily to keep the peace, in case someone thinks they are going to come wreaking havoc and disrespecting us. While we could come up with a very long list of additional things they could do ... they are doing what I asked of them ... and oftentimes, much more. I am grateful for their contribution to this forum.

MsLuciousB, please don't think you can't speak your mind here, because you can. I'm glad you feel comfortable enough to do so and I'd like to ask you to take it one step further, and be more specific. For example ...

You say:

"The fact is a group of people who have some clout have created an elitist clique within your community and you all don't even have the balls to say anything."

Who are these group of people? Name them please. I really want you to name them if you don't mind. Let's put everything out on the table. You've accused me of not having the balls ... :wink: ... to address this, but I think it's really that I tend to look at the whole forest and not individual trees ... so I appreciate you bringing this to my attention and would like to examine the trees if you'd help me.

You also say ...

"Being vulgar, well that seems to be the only things that sell around here!"

Would you mind pointing out some of this for me? Again, I don't read every post and may have actually missed the vulgarity being sold. It will be addressed if you'll show it to me.

You also say ...

"If it sucked... Hell it sucked go back and rework it or delete it!"

I really don't agree with this. Folk open up their heart and soul to share a peace of themselves with their world. I'm not willing to have others tell them their work sucks, or that they should go back and rework it and/or delete it. Someone may do this in private if the poet has made their email or private message available ... but if I see this on the forum ... I will ask that it not be done. I'd much rather a person not say anything at all ... than to tear another person's work apart with negative criticism.

Well MsLuciousB, my fiery poetic Sister ... you have brought much to the table and I do appreciate it. I hope we are able to come to some agreement regarding your concerns. I love having you here and admire your "balls" :wink: for bringing issues to the table that you don't think will be met with open arms. I love addressing controversial issues. While I've asked for more specific examples above, please feel free to provide as many as you'd like. Let's do this Sis!

Looking forward to your response.

Much Much Love.

Destee

I appeciate you taking time to give a lengthy response I appreciate how busy you are, I know! As for the peoples names
I am not going to name, names in an open forum as I have enough people who don't appreciate me as it is! You feel me?
I will do that in private. The poems that are the hottest may not be considered vulgar by all, it is a matter of taste...but anything
about sex SELLS! That is the prurient interest. I cannot go back and list all of the poems for I feel that everyone has done one or two hot ones that is what OPEN FORUM means...and I do remember how you handled my specific situation when I was going toe to toe with Rich and Watcher...:D All good!
The clique with clout are the ones who have either made poet of the week, get the most posts, regardless of the content and never, never reply to anyone but their favorites, that is the inequity! When I say "you don't have the balls" don't take it personal, I was not referring to you specifically. I have noticed the ones who do respond mostly; Rich!
Of the ones who are responding to me, that is not the issue...my grave concern is that we all be perceived as elitist and that is sad.
I will send you a list of the "self proclaimed MASTER'S" and you can deal with it however you see fit. As for me, I am going no where...as a matter of fact! I am inviting my own friends from other sites to join me on Destee, not to join the elitist 'Snobs', but to balance the scales!
Much Love and Respect!

Hold up MsLuciousB ... don't send me the names privately ... that's not fair ... I just wanna get this in before you compose that list.

Now let me compose a proper response to your response ... stand by. :)

:heart:

Destee

I am done with it! I don't have the desire or the inclination to publicly humiliate people the way that they have done some of
us newer folks...So I am done with it! Respond as you like and don't think I am madd... cause I can just write as I like and compile my poetry as I intended in the first place and not worry
about anyone else. I brought it to Rich, and I brought it to you...
they already know who they are if they have even read this post, which in a way I know that they have not. So let's just say...
"Time will tell!" If we ever have an "Ideal Web community".
Your purpose is not my purpose in all things and their purpose is not my purpose in all things. And that is cool! I am all about the
first Amendment, to the Death...
Much Respect!
BLESSINGS ON YA HOUSE!

Okay ... whew! :)

First, in regard to my not wanting a list of the names privately. You've presented this issue publicly and it wouldn't be fair to those following (or those who are being called out) to just send me the list privately and everyone not have an opportunity to know what's going on and respond if they so desire. I wasn't asking you to name them so that folk could take issue with you. As a matter of fact, you may be presenting concerns that others are thinking/feeling. I'm sure the Family (and most definitely me) can appreciate your desire to discuss the things in our house that bother you. Your doing so probably gives others the confidence to step up and voice their own concerns. My main reason for asking you to put it on the table is to allow everything to be addressed openly and in public. I've found that in most cases, it's the best way. It allows for everyone to see how things are handled, comment on if it's done fairly and remove any doubt that anyone is getting special consideration ... because all considerations (from me) are done so that everyone can see them. It also eliminates the need for me to respond to private responses regarding what is going on ... 'cause everyone can see clearly what is happening, every step of the way. I do understand your desire not to name names, but I've found that if folk really have a grievance, they should be prepared to put it all on the table ... or not bother to say anything at all ... ya know? I'm not challenging you to do what you are uncomfortable doing, but you can't cry foul and then not want to show us where the foul is. This goes not only for you MsLuciousB, but for anyone that wants an issue addressed. For the record, I am glad you posted it here in the forum and didn't send it to me privately ... I want everyone to see what my response is and determine if the way this forum is administered, is done in a consistent manner. Thank you for this.

In regard to hot, "vulgar," poetry ... we've had this discussion before here on the forum. A very lengthy thread in fact, you can find it here (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2051). You are right, I have never discouraged anyone from contributing "sensual poetry" to the site. So often it's a matter of opinion regarding what crosses the line, and with a few key words added to the "banned word list (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6156)" ... most all poetry can be allowed ... because those key words are going to be replaced by asterisks. In spite of "sensual poetry" being allowed here, I think it's a reach to suggest that we sell sex. Yes, sex certainly sells, but I don't think it's fair to say we are doing that. There is simply too much poetry, too many topics, too many emotions expressed ... to narrow us down to a "sex poetry site."

In regard to the "Poet of the Week" ... this conversation has come up too. Bishop is choosing this person all by himself, with no input from me (or anyone else that I'm aware of). It has only been a few weeks since this has started, thus, only a few folk have been chosen. It is our intention to feature everyone that contributes here, but even in our attempt of doing that ... there will only be 52 per year ... because there are 52 weeks in a year. I think if you or I were choosing the Poet of the Week, there would be someone saying we made a poor choice, that someone else was more deserving, that it appears as though we are playing favorites, etc. Such is the nature of these things, but trust that Bishop is fair, loving and considerate of all ... because I do trust that.

When it comes to folk responding to who they choose, while I feel what you're saying ... I really have no control over this. People are going to respond to who they want, for many different reasons. All I can suggest is that one doesn't take it too personal. Let everyone post to whomever they please, and if they don't respond to us ... then we'll respond to each other ... okay? :)

Yes, our $$RICH$$NESS has ALWAYS shown love to everyone, above and beyond even my own contribution to this forum, which is why we had a "Member of the Year." Not everyone is blessed the same, not everyone gives the same kind of love and time ... that's okay ... because whatever little bit of themselves they give is appreciated and counted. As a matter of fact, our dear darling $$RICH$$ hasn't been on the forum as much recently, as in times past ... but I don't think it's because he loves us any less and doesn't want to share his love with us ... it's probably because he's busy, got other things going on and has to tend to them. I think the same applies to others who don't spend lots of time posting/responding ... they come in when they can ... give a little love ... and are out again. That's okay with me, so long as they don't leave the koolaid pitcher empty in the 'fridge ... ya know :wink:

In regard to there being an "elitist group" here, or "snobs" even ... wow ... that's a pretty harsh accusation MsLuciousB, especially in light of the very humble, giving and loving spirit found on this forum. Perhaps I'm too "out of touch" with what is really going on (looking at the forest and not the trees) but I don't see that. No one has "clout" here, except the Moderators and myself and I've even called the Moderators out, in front of everyone, if their behavior appeared to go against the rules and/or heart of this site, which is that all are sincerely welcome to everything that is here. You can even find a few apologies I've posted to others, where it appeared I may have "crossed the line." More evidence that no one is above another, including me, when it comes to respecting all that have Membership here.

Thank you for staying with us and inviting others to join. I don't claim that this forum is perfect or can be all things to all people ... but I do work hard at making sure that everyone feels welcome and that there is none that should feel they are "the least of us," because we are all in this together.

My response is rather general, because you've presented your concerns in general. If you'd like me to be more specific, then I'll need you to be more specific. If you'd rather end it here we can do that too, but know that I am more than willing to go the distance, in hopes that we can see eye to eye.

:heart:

Destee

I have stated as clearly as I know how without placing blame or shifting responsibilities as the terms "Moderator" and "Administrator" would apply. And without just blowing wind
or bowing down to controversy if you insist...I have the list right
here...POETICDELIGHT, KEMESTRY,UBZORBSHUN,BLAKVERB,YESHUJAH,J'HAI,N2URSO UL,
GA_SUNSHYNE,Aaliyamonet, sometimes Maddrapper , Hi-wa and Desert Storm...
They post a lot but respond basically to each other.
I have taken the time to respond to others who get lots of post and no replies and even gone back over the archives to see if I was being paranoid...I do not have permission from the others to air their grievances, but I do know that I am not the only one.
Harsh words, that's a matter of opinion...I called it like I saw it.
This is not a corporation and seniority should not determine your
skills...Just because we just hit the site doesn't mean we are new
to the craft! The decision to be selective as you have agreed is of course everyones right...But, I think it is also a barometer of sincerity! After I posted my complaint initially I seem to get more than a few responses..."was this a directive, or deterrent to my complaint" don't know! Don't care...
I have said my say! No one else is going to say a word.
It is evident by the posts to this page!
I agree in part with what you have said. And for the biggest part
I am satisfied that the moderators do a "Fantastic Job" some
better than others!
As for this topic I am done with it...I am only replying cause it's
"YOU", MS.WEBB and for no other reason. I owe you that much
respect and unconditional love!

Many people complain around the water cooler...the true champions...Put their *** on the line! I did....
BLESSING ON DESTEE'S HOUSE!:heart: :heart: :heart: :heart: :heart:

MsLuciousB ... thank you so much for your consideration of my request ... I APPLAUD you for naming names and voicing this concern ... Thank You Sis :toast:

It takes much courage to do what you've done. I hope, if there are others that feel the same as you, they too will have the courage and confidence to step forward and say what is on their minds.

We are all entitled to our opinions and everyone will be respected here, please know that. Even if you had listed my name in that list, I would still be as happy, because I would be even more confident that folk know they can express themselves without concern for being attacked.

Well MsLuciousB ... you have put it out here Sis. I'm scared of you!!!! :) Whew! I Love It !!! Okay ... let me share my opinion of those you've mentioned, as it pertains to the issues you've raised.

PoeticDelight - perhaps she's been quiet lately, not posting as regularly to many ... but in general ... PoeticDelight always has a smile and encouraging word for most. I'm not sure what you may have witnessed of late, but I'm surprised she's on this list.

Kemetstry - while he is a poet in his own right, spending a little time in the poetry forum ... he spends most of his time in the "discussion" forums, oftentimes, the only male point of view chiming in. Now, if you want a good debate and lots of responses, post in the open forum and Kemetstry will be responding long after he's lost the debate! :wink:

'Zorbsh'n - I haven't even seen 'Zorbsh'n on the forum in some time ... but again ... she's known to show lots of love to folk ... hmmmm ... I'm surprised she's mentioned, especially since she's not been here much lately (I don't think).

BlakVerb - Now Blak isn't here very often, peeking in every now and again ... sharing some encouraging words and then out again ... I vote that we should spank him! :)

Yeshujah - This is another surprise, he's often quiet ... posting a little bit, staying away much too long, and then coming back home to treat us with his flow again. I don't believe that he's intentionally trying to hurt anyone with his small amount of posting ... it just doesn't seem to be his nature to behave that way.

J'hiah - Another surprise, J'hiah brings such peace and love to the forum, such a gentle spirit. I don't know about him posting to others in heaping bucket fulls or not, but gosh, even if he doesn't ... he adds such a serenity to our home that we can't hold that against him.

N2urSoul - Now N2 hasn't been in the house much lately, but when she's here, she's looking out for everyone, showing everyone love, showing off her poetic skills ... being an example to others. I'm not sure what to think of her being added to the list.

Sunshyne - Now she does get lots of views and responses to her work ... but I think she pays people to do that for her .. :lol: ... I'm just kidding ... The Sister has the kind of work that folk want to respond to ... that deep love poetry ... I think it's more an indication of her talent than her desire to "get more views and responses" ... and she is usually giving the same kind of love she receives. Yeah ... she makes me sick too! :wink:

Aaliyamonet - Now Aaliyamonet is relatively new to the Family and again, I'm surprised her name is on the list. I have noticed her posting but haven't paid close attention to how much love she gives others ... but whether a person is giving or receiving love ... it's all good ... because we've got plenty and eventually, if after receiving enough love ... one can't help but give some back.

MADD - It doesn't seem to be MADD's way to post a lot of responses to peaces. I may be wrong on this, but he seems to come in, spit some stuff out ... and is back on the road again. This is alright with me too though. Just having him come back through, every now and again ... gives me to know that he's still with us ... that's plenty for me.

Hi-Wa - Another surprise here. This poet is so quiet as well, I've noticed them giving love ... sharing poetry ... keeping the warm and inviting spirit we've fostered alive in our house. This poet is so quiet that I can't even imagine them being listed. Hmmmm ... I guess it's how folk look at things ... some do it different than others.

Desert Storm - Now you know what, I would think that Desert Storm would be one that complains she doesn't get enough love ... while giving love to this forum and others. Yep, another surprise to see her listed here. Kinda quiet Sister, but consistent in regard to her participation here.

In regard to some Members being "senior" to others, well, we really can't get past that ... some simply have been here longer ... had more time to foster friendships / relationships ... and more time to establish themselves amongst the readers ... develop a following if you will. Everyone who joins, begins as the "newest" Member, but it doesn't take long and there's a new "newest" Member. All I can suggest is to feel the flow, show some love, share your poetry ... and you will be embraced. I have no doubt of this.

Again MsLuciousB ... I truly do applaud you for taking this stand ... saying what was on your mind and naming names. It takes a very strong, secure and confident person to do as you've done. I can only hope that I will have such courage when it is necessary for me to exhibit it.

I hope that those you've mentioned will respond to your concern.

Much Much Love Sis.

:heart:

Destee

I suppose, MsLusciousB, this is why poetry sites like this are special. Before I found Afronet, where most of us "seniors" originated (including Destee), I had never seen a site where you could post and get immediate love for your work. I enjoyed the interaction and it was all very good. Back then, however, the family was much smaller...and we all had/found time to respond to most everyone. If you'll notice...there are a ba-jillion members now..some just come on to read...in fact, MOST come on to read only. There are only a few of us who ever respond. And Most of that group are the poets, themselves.

I do tend to think it's like Kemetstry said. People do have their favorites. I, myself have no problem with that. Unless someone shows complete disrespect toward someone else PERSONALLY...I don't see the problem. I'll also say here, that I'm sure there are those of us who have gravitated to each other in an even deeper social relationship off the Page. And so, there's a family within the family. I think this is also natural.

This is far better than the other poetry site we're both members of (won't name it, but you know it)...in terms of that "community" feeling. And there is no way to know who's responding to everyone's work because all is done through e-mail only. And perhaps this is part of the issue for you. I don't get to see who responded to a poem of yours, that those moderators distributed to each member in the group...I only get to e-mail you privately, my response. Do you think that's better, MsLusciousB? And do you think that could be why you are put off by the members you've mentioned here? Because you can physically scroll back and "see" who's responded to what pieces and how often?

I hope you won't let this worry you much longer. I won't minimize your concern; but I do wish you to know that I recognize that people who are only willing to click onto their "favorites"...are cheating themselves out of some excellent reading elsewhere. I can testify to that my damnself.

I recommend that everyone check out somebody they haven't ever read before, once in a while... I've been blessed by doing so. Some deep thinkers among us...

Peace on ya, my sista! :heart:

alyce

Whether I think the other site was better or worse in terms of how they do things in this case is irrelevant..perhaps it keeps some drama at bay...no numbers to count and check, no competitive edge without a posted Contest. I respect you very
much Alyce and know that I speak what I feel always and anywhere. I sometimes feel people need to be shaken awake
from the dream state. And I will bear the brunt of this I am sure.
So , do I think that my opinion would be different...If I felt that
there was a clique, even if it's in Church "I have said so!".
And that's just the way I am...The people I mentioned were
observed over a period of time. I was getting emails from other members about how they felt, cause they could tell by some of
my pieces that "I could feel a chill in the room"!
Whether other people perceive it that way or not, does not negate the "Fact". We of all people should not practice elitism
in any form. And if we show love...we should do so consistently.
Perhaps ,because I have the luxury of working for myself I would not notice the flow....So let if flow , however you know!
Blessings on ya house!

well now here comes $$RICH$$ i try very hard spend sleepless
nights days and much tyme to show love to every poet here
i welcome all that cometh within da house also i post work yet get replys some tyme not one sometyme 50 but i write for me
i see that 100's look at it and i feel my work is done i understand
where u coming from and truely we all have a few that we just
flow to coz MsluciousB u know i look for yo work i am a fan of yours as well as Alyce & heartbeat I love Amun-Ra work too
but for the new family members i want them to feel da warmth
of Destee's place at all cost ...but i too feel lost sometyme when i get not a reply but O' well thats poetry !!
I love it here and understand folkz be busy but do try to hit
some work poets flip out their many tymes i watch from above
without a word and I'VE BEEN MISSING SOMEWHAT BECOZ I
STARTED MY OWN BUSSINESS OPENNING UP MY FIRST NOVELTY
STORE KEEPS ME RUNNING .....SORRY I'VE BEEN OUT BUT BACK
IN FLYGHT SO FEEL MY SWOOPZ ))))))>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
this is a big family now and my work here is much bigger then
last year **** !!!!!! not even i can keep up but i'll put up a
hellava fight trying anyway come here sit down take a load off
relax unwined and kiss me.......hehehehehehe!!!!!!!
well i'll shut up
before i go just wish me luck in my new found business venture

HELLO EVERYBODY $$RICHNESS STILL LOVE YA
WATCH IN DA SKY U SHOULD SEE ME FLYING ROUND
Ms.B gurl this was very much needed to be said openly
and i see that some just flow pieces and never reply
i see some reply and never write pieces
yeah!! i may be one of the ole schoolers but i seek out
new comers
honey u will always get a reply from me ...
new season new faces new wayz new thang
so i Ajust to da feelings of vibes ......word up !!!!

I am who i am and what i am to be ))))))

$$

@Msluciousb

Most of that stuff is 95% barren anyways, so you have absolutly nothing to worry about. My first day here, I read some of that diatribe you speak of, and found your observations to be truth. As a matter of fact, myself laughed at a few of them, and even moreso at the approvals of same. "OOOOOO this was DEEP Bruh/Sis." Yeah right! :rolleyes:

Folk over there complimenting only their homies, and whateva. But so what? It just shows their maturity level.

Your gift will make room for you. ;)

Know this, you won't get many agreements on your post. But at least you have MY vote, and THAT speaks multitudes. ;)

Stay encouraged,

kebah

we r a lovin family and it is a lot of new faces here
just flow as u know and remember we all have a few whom we hit on point dis matter is all good ......fly wit me !!!>>>

Never before have I felt compelled to speak on a subject over here but this one kind of got me. I actually see both sides of the coin. When I first came to Destee I thought it was the most wonderful thing that could happen to a poet. I could put some of my stuff out there and get an immediate response. That was waaaayyyy cool and I immediately felt at 'home'.

I must say that I too noticed that it seemed to be the same people responding to the same people over and over again. However, I took no offense. I am just as guilty of reading the works of the same poets all the time because I know what I like. Like Alyce said, I'm short changing myself by doing that. And then too, if I read something that does not speak to me normally I won't respond to it. Who am I to criticize what someone has purposed in their heart to say?

I will feel at home here until... oh hell, I don't know :lol: . But I do know this... I write for me and not for the approval of anyone else. So if I never get another response from anyone except $$RICH$$ or Destee that's cool wit' me. :)

Much :heart:

i shall address my comments directly to you

truly there is a strong relationship between
certain poets in the forum

some drawn to certain people's work more than
others

i must admit that many times i read poems but
may not even post a reply and it's not because
i think the piece was bad

it's because i have gone through so many that
i am too exhausted to post a reasonably
heart-felt reply :)

recently, MADDRAPPER posted a topic in the
forum calling everyone in the forum a
playahater because no one really posts
replies to his work

quote "poeticdelight isn't the only one who got
a degree all of you have a PHD and that sucks
raw carrots" :lol:

so trust msluscious there are people who feel
the same as you do and some people didn't
understand why MADD even posted the topic

some of us are unaware of having neglected
the work of other people

i'm now more aware and will make an effort
to do better but i can't speak for the others

many of them don't even know of this topic
being posted so it would be unfair on my
part to speak on their behalf and they not be
able to defend themselves

so in that being said i have replied :)

pd

People being *****, cliques, sophomoric, pissing folks off, flipping scripts, long *** poems, excuses, group of people with some clout, elitist clique within the community, snobs, joy stealing, inner circles, seniority, the list etc.... I can only speak for me so this is what I have to say.

You put me on a list with numerous others and stated that we "post a lot and basically respond to each other" . First of all until today my last post was back in March early part of April if at all. I for one do not "post a lot" When you say that what do you consider a lot? More than one poem a day? More than two poems a week? I've seen days when poets have posted six or more poems. Is that a lot? Should a person be limited to the amount of poems they can post? You are correct when you say that I read certain poets all the time. That's my right. I have a relationship with many of the poets outside of the page. Many of us have formed friendships over the years. Should I be criticized because I have accepted these men and women into my life? I don't think so.

I know for a fact that I have read and responded to some of your poems as well as other poets yours being (Touching and the Salute piece you did). I also know for a fact that I have read and not responded to some of the poems you have put down as well as other poets including the poets I always read. Not because I think that I am better than you or anyone on this page. Sometimes I just don't have anything to say. Should I be titled a snob if I don’t reply to each and every poem?

If I read every poem here, responded to each one, I would be looking for a job. To call me a "self proclaimed MASTER" is a bit much. I do visit the other forums that are here as well. I resent the fact that I have been labeled as such and have not in any way, shape or form, done anything wrong to any member of this community. I do not sit back and relish in the sending of malicious private messages, e-mails or any other forms of communication to bring down another poet.

I agree with the family members that replied before me. It is not my place to correct or critique for that matter anyone’s work. If my poem gets replied to fine, if not that’s fine too. If someone likes it cool, if they don’t that’s ok. Someone is going to find fault with something I do everyday I open my eyes. I can’t change that.

This subject has come up before and I’m sure it will come up again, but this is the first time that I have been put on a “list”. I do not apologize for reading certain poets. That’s my choice, my right. I will not apologize for reading poems and not responding to them, again my right, my choice. I will not tolerate you or anyone else trying to make me out to be something that I am not (Self proclaimed Master), accuse me of doing something that I don’t (post a lot). As for the other poets that you have “listed” I can not speak for them. I am only speaking for self.

***Destee, do you think that with the amount of new members that are joining on a regular basis, this situation will come up again? Is there something that can be done to maybe hide the reply and view columns on the boards?***


One

(laughin' REAL loud) :lol: CLawd, Clawd, CLawd! ...why i gotta be sittin' at home, mindin' my own **** bitness... & get a voicemail message from my sis tellin' me 'bout this heah post?!! :lol: it kills me dead (dats some southern **** for ya! :lol: ) when grown *** people sit around & find things to whine about! you could be writin' a poem or sumthin'. anyway...

this is ridiculous-ness (i love makin' up words to suite particular situations) at its best! i guess i would like to start by sayin' i am NOT posting this response in an effort to defend myself. a defense is not necessary. (at least in my mind) next... i would like to speak on the "self proclaimed Master" thingy. 'skruse me!? but! i was not the one who proclaimed GA_Sunshyne the master of LovePoetry... that was a title bestowed upon me by my REAL family members... soooo.... for the record... "i think i'll keep it!!" :D

i will NOT apologize for responding to WHOMeva/WHENeva i want. that's my perogative. (go bobby brown! go bobby brown! hahaha) i... fortunate-ly have a life outside the poetry board... therefore... when i make time to come over here i like an enjoyable read. lucky for me... i know exactly whose posts to go to in order to find just that. hmmm... i think i've bestowed some blessings on ya house too... are you complaining about it?
folks always trippin' 'bout who's readin' who. this is not an "i seek critique" typa forum. besides... if everyone was bein' true to the art, as well as themselves... it wouldn't matter HOW MANY people are responding to you! you SHOULD be writing for YOU, anyway! & if folks weren't responding JUST SO they can get a response... & then trippin' when they DON'T... we wouldn't even be having this discussion.

i kinda like lists though... so these are the people who can always expect to hear from me... sherykah, ubzorbshun, listerscribin, blakverb, euphoria, j'hiah, joyce, $$rich$$, msberry, rashad, reason, danilyn, alyce, shadeeladee, kitana, baller, hi-wa, soja & gq. & even they know that sometimes it takes me a minute. now... if i didn't include your name... it'll be a surprise when i hit yo *** up! how 'bout dat?? :lol:

i will NOT apologize for the number of people who show me love. & if you think i should... well then... you betta check your own PHD... my sistah. i will NOT even comment on the remarks about folks posting a lot... 'cause that ain't me. although, i can understand how you might THINK that... since my work sometimes stays on the front page for days at a time. but! then again... it's like one of dem rappers said... "it ain't my fault". :D

at first... i was gonna respond to this by simp-ly sayin'... "LOL@msluciousb. i'll be that!!" but! i decided to take time out of my busy schedule to say a lil more. i'm glad i did... 'cause i do so like to make people laugh. now... with all of this having been said... i shall retire back to doing what i was doing before i was so childish-ly interrupted.

:heart:itsallLove, chirens!! ('cause my mama raised me dat way!)

elayne.

Msluciousb I am relatively new here and tho my poetry hasn't been posted to. I am confident that I write good poetry. Replies are in the eyes of the beholder, do not waste your time worrying about what other folks think. The saying goes you can take horses to the trough, but you can't make them drink.
Personally I think it is a shame that a person can't voice their opinion and be given the proper respect without being attacked by the majority. Poetry is suspose to be enjoyed, with or without replies. Its not a matter of elite cliques, but respect for all poets and the art, to acknowledge someone's work. I believe thats what writing and reading poetry is all about. A person's legitimate concern no matter how trivial to some should be addressed and given merit for discussion without jokes and patronizing. With what I have witness and read, this is not a family I would want to be a part of. A family, I think you all need to seek counseling for dysfunction and verbal abuse. Msluciousb, be encouraged, your heart is in the right place.

long time no see :lol:

a prime example of a registered member
who enters to view poetry and other
discussion topics but may hardly ever post
a new topic

so trust me msluscious it's truly nothing
personal des'arae is a prime example of
many of us who have a busy life

nothing personal :)

pd

THOSE WHO COMMENTED AT THE LAST MINUTE, WHO SAY THEY ARE NOT DEFENDING THEMSELVES...ARE DOING JUST THAT. I CONTINUE TO POST...VIEW,READ AND REPLY!!!!!!
DON'T BE MAD CAUSE I HAVE THE KIND OF JOB THAT ALLOWS ME THAT FREEDOM....I GOT IT LIKE THAT!
HOW SAD SOME OF YOU STILL ARE WITH YA JOKES AND VERBAL DUPLICITY! AND I VOICED MY OPINION AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO,CAUSE SOME OTHER'S WERE ALSO COMPLAINING TO ME!
NOW JUST CAUSE YOU "BLESSED" MY PAGE! IT'S NOT SINCERE AND I KNOW IT...SO LIKE THE ROCK SAYS"IT DOESN'T MATTER"!
* AND AS FOR NOT HAVING A LIFE, LIKE MARINES I PROBABLY GET MORE DONE BEFORE 7AM THAN YOU DO ALL DAY! ANYWAY....
SCRIBING IS MY BUSINESS...AND AT LEAST I GOT SOME!

"replying at the last minute"

number one: we were notified in pm by Bishop that
you had started a thread with our names in it(meaning
we were unaware of your thread's existence until recently)

number two: don't be getting angry at us you called
us an "***" which is very inappropriate(how would you
feel if i posted a topic in the poetry forum and called you
out your name)

number three: before jumping to conclusions and
classifying people as an "***", have evidence of their
actions to substantiante they were in fact being an "***"

case closed on my part

pd

"tho my poem hasn't been posted to"

i clicked onto the search button and noticed
that your work is filled with replies

so what's really the problem :confused:

i see no truth based on your statement or
are you referring to responses from particular
poets in the forum?

because if that is the case, i have never seen
you reply to any of my work

mslusciousb's topic is in regard to HER posting
replies to our (the names listed on the previous
page) work but we not responding to her's in
return

i established my point, Ubzo has expressed her
view points, and GA has expressed hers, i'm
sure Bishop has informed others whose name
appear on the list so they will either respond
or choose to ignore it

this is not an attack in any form. mslusciousb
asked for us to respond long time ago but
we were unaware of this topic being in
existence so i'm simply wondering who are
you referring to listed by mslusciousb because
i have never replied to any of your work neither
have you to any of my work

thank you :)

pd

i'm surprised that after your "observance" of poet(esses) you
missed the times that i hit your pieces up w/o replying to other tyte poet(esses).

i "blessed ya' house" a lot and then you rail on me
misspelling my name and ****. (J'HAI) :cuss:
hope ya know it's not all that good to be open as you are and so close-minded.

i've filled just about a whole page replying to new and old peeps here with much sincerity you assume that i lack.
dead wrong ms.lusciousb.
if i said it was tyte then consider it spandex
if it's real then trust, i felt it but don't get yourself caught in your net of presumptions that i'm not sincere when i reply.
stop dat.


now, more facts:

i don't associate with anybody here, but one. i've talked to a couple. my sis GA and dem.
honestly, i don't have a desire to be interpersonal here but if i did then i would w/o thinking "elite" or "clique".

who in the blue hell has time to hit you up with insincerity?
you've posted some heartwork here and i surely do appreciate it a lot, just know that queen and i know for a fact that i have shown you madd love so why did you diss me? :cuss:
i ain't mad at'cha.

when i saw my name on your cyber hitlist i was like :jawdrop:
but yo nothing surprises me anymore, trust.
please don't presume and then mention my name again.
that offends me.
**** that. (excuse my swahili)

i respect you as my elder, but when you're wrong, that doesn't even matter.

me, i'm in no clique, no elite. i love alyce, sherykah, blak, Bishop, etc...( maybe i shouldn't have named names, i might get sprayed by those i didn't mention :uzi: ) but i don't know them outside of this forum, understand where i'm coming from.

i'm in my own zone with love for everyone from men and women, old and new. i've shown that with views and replies alike so maybe you should observe better or borrow my versaces :cool:

as far as replies go anyway, i've seen my posts hit the bottom quicker than Enron, but after i was done posting, it helped me spiritually and mentally so there was the benefit and that was all that mattered.
i don't want to entertain i want to edutain- krs-one
besides, some people hit me, some people don't.
i gives a what i know i'm tyte :D

even after this wrong presumption , i will show you love as usual queen, artist, and family.

nfinite
jh.

Let's stop the madness!!! Over the past few days this has been going on..I've watched how it developed and I even voiced a concern. Yes Mslucious B raised a concern that was dear to her....She felt slighted maybe even offended that she wasn't getting the love or respect she felt she was due...Ok fine....I think we've all can admit we've felt that from time to time......Some of us DO have people that we gravitate to more than others...I don't think it's intentional I just think that many of us go with the folks we know first.......Now when Mslucious B called out certain folks, we took offense to something that we felt we were not guilty of doing....including me.....and by the way I did contact those who were listed because I knowing that they would not come to this forum normally, I felt they had a right to know what was being said , so they can give a response........This was not to launch an all out frontal attack. Although I can understand both sides, I think that a lot of emotions flared up!!! We ALL got pissed off at what was said.....So the question is what do we do now? I'll tell you!!! We go forward....We do what this poetry forum was set up to do and that was to scribe and showcase our God-given talent!!! Now let's face it...we knw that many of our pieces might be read but no responses given, but we write because it's our passion, not because we seek approval from each other, although we would desire honest comments, it's not going to make us or break us if we don't get any, but let's try to be aware of what everyone is doing...... The attacks must stop...Not only is it affecting the poetry forum it's affecting the whole site....When new people join the fam, they ought not enter in the midst of arguments and backbiting.....C'mon yall Destee worked too hard to give us a place after all the confusion we had with Afronet...She has tailored this place to our liking added additional forums at our request, and this is how we repay her by turning her work into a battlefield.........This has to stop! All voices have been heard, all have stated their cases, now let's move on!!! and please no more using a poet's post to launch an attack.....c'mon be real about it. If you have an issue with someone hit them up in email or PM them, but keep it off the page....and if you have a problem with the site as a whole then direct your comments to the administrator and/or moderators........

If I have offended anyone I beg your forgiveness.....Destee I apologize for the way things have been turned upside down...MsluciousB I apologize for somehow being the subject of your anger....To all the poets that were named in this post....I apologize for making you aware of all of this thereby adding fuel to this fire........To all of the new folks who may have been following this...I apologize to you for giving you the impression that this is not a house of inspiration.......we do have love for each other...sometimes we just forget....I think MsluciousB said it best....even families fight........Forgive us for subjecting you to this...Alright yall let's bring this stuff to an end and get about the business of what we are here for and that is the Art of Poetry!!!!


Bishop has spoken!

much love peeps :D

as Rodney King said
"can we all just kick back and chill" :smokin:

I really don't think you should take it personally!
You post good poetry and you know it
Am I offended that my name is on the list?, no!
Most of these people who you would think are cliques
Were previous from Afronet.com and that's how we all know eachother. It's really not a big deal. In my opinion.
I reply to things that I relate to and that I'm feeling at the time.
It's not an issue of showin love or anything like that.
I don't take it that way.
Poetry isn't meant to get credit
It's meant to express yourself.
If you can relate to someones poetry or you are feelin it, then respond. If not don't respond. Lot's of people don't respond to my poetry. I'm happy if I get some replies. Most of the time I don't reply. I used to do it a lot. But not anymore.
So that' that. I'm sorry you feel that way.
One love sis.
P.S. this won't affect my replys to the people I normally reply to. That's why it's a free country and I would rather you not reply to my poems if it's insincere. If it's sincere replys thats what counts.
No offense taking.
I'm just going to keep goin about my business. Okay?
Just like before
Just thought I'd clear that up. Also I like some peoples writing style. I have no favorites. And no one has had a problem with it except for you and you shouldn't have a problem with it either. Another thing is I really don't care what people on this board think of me or anyone else of it's members. I use this board to express myself. If you feelin it coo. If you don't please don't lie and respond. I'd rather have not respond. It's not a love loss to me. Okay?
Bye
Sincerely,
Desert Storm

whoa...
i didn't know that this drama
went on here before i ventured
upon this mecca...wow
peace
khasm

lol yeah...ditto oh what sir khasm said...this was definitely NOT somethin i expected from this site...
:)

lol Khasm & Triniti ... we had this thoroughly swept in a neat pile under the rug ... what yall do ??!!! ... go lift'n da rug up, talk'n 'bout ... Hey Destee, what's this big lump of stuff unda this rug Sister ??!!! ... Sister Deeeeeeeestee ... did you see this big lump of stuff under this rug ??!!! ... we was just trying to walk past this rug and tripped and almost fell ... so we wanted to see what was under here ... and look Destee ... dirt ... a big ol' pile of dirt Sister ... uuhhhhh ... you might wanna clean this up before somebody else sees it ...

another example ... okay ...

you know when you're at someone's house ... and you see the roach crawl up the wall in da livin room ... you spoze ta jes' go right 'head on and take a big ol' swallow of yo' koolaid rite then and there ... don't look at the roach and follow it wit yo' eyes as it travels across da ceiling ... wit folk talk'n to you and stuff ... just say, uh huh, and look down in yo' koolaid and drank ... ack like you don't see the roach ... okay ?!!! ... i know yall know how to ack ...

:heart:

Destee

lol gurrrrl now u know EVERY family has drama every now and then...its proof that the feelings are there...cuz if it wasnt people wouldnt get hurt...its like when momma and daddy go at it...thats when u know they give a d@mn bout each otha...but if they go bout they way not caring or nothin...somethin wrong :)

all I'm sayin is...now I KNOW this a fam cuz it come complete wit fam drama (lol), and a double dose of healing LOVE :)

tru indeed...
could not have said it betta

I said what I said and it came from the heart, then after the words the healing does start. The names that were listed are now my best friends. The best of all places from beginning to end....At Destee's...Y'all don't think I would be here two years if it was foul now do ya...But look how much nicer we play since we had that fight on the playground that day! We are a family although we fuss and fight, we love each other so , in time of trouble to each other we will go....A Family that plays,prays and Spits together...

Blessings On Ya House!
*Now let sleeping dogs lie....:D :D

Positive is your choice- don't let anyone steal your joy. Just do you and keep movenforward and you'll l connect with the right people who you will give love.

Of all my pieces that you could have picked I don't know why you chose
this one. However, as you can see I have been here three years.
And as in any family you have disagreements from time to time.
So please let this one go the way of all yesterday's news...
Blessings on Your House! :yawn:

C'mon now MsLuciousB, you can't hardly blame someone for being attracted to this thread and want to comment on it. It's like reading history and having an opportunity to contribute to it. As i said to you, early in this same thread, you have proven by it that everyone is welcome to bring their concerns to the table. This thread is evidence of that. This thread and your longterm, unwavering support of this community. I'm forever grateful Sister. Let them read and respond, it's all good.

Love You Sister.

:heart:

Destee