I have seen, recently, an increase in the women who post on the messageboard. This brings me great joy as it is nice to see women confident and ready to add their opinions and thoughts to the threads. The Women's forum is growing nicely, with times of busy activity and other times when there is a lull. I can always gauge the lulls by how busy women get during holidays. I find myself busy with all the trappings and getting last minute cards in the mail, wrapping presents, etc. is always time consuming.
The weather has been a bit odd this year too, many women have written to me about the freezing temps, the lack of power and the strong winds they have been dealing with and I think it worries them when so much has to be done for the preparation of the Holidays.
I have forged friendships with so many of these wonderful women, most of whom I have never laid eyes on. The internet is often a great tool for discussion and sharing one's life situations.
I will also add that I have many friendships with men that I have shared opinions with on Mindat. I have great respect for those that have gone above and beyond to make me, and other women, feel welcome. Kudos to Jolyon for taking a step forward and giving the ladies a place to chat about their mineral thoughts, their family thoughts and their concerns for their collections. They have ventured forth from the women's forum to post more often on the messageboard.
In the past there were some unsolicited attacks on women based on perceived weaknesses, but they have greatly diminished and many men have shown their dislike for the cowardly and usually anonymous postings by standing up and saying "enough". Chivalry is still alive and well on Mindat.
The sharing of knowledge is what we all stive for, the fun of finding a place to crow about a new mineral find or purchase, a place to be with one's peers. Mindat has achieved in making itself a comfortable place for everyone, male and female alike.
I want to wish you all the best the holidays have to offer and a great, healthy and happy New Year.
Peace,
Gail

---

In order to leave comments to this blog post, you must be registered