Well, all, it seems that my decision to go neutral for awhile until things could settle down has hurt the Jedi Republic more than the action that I was protesting. Although the firestorm has died down, I note that nobody who left has yet returned. Also, it's unusually quiet in here, particularly given how vocal everyone was just 3-4 days ago.
I've spent quite a bit of my free time over the last few days thinking about why we come here. GalCiv is an addicting game, all right - maybe as addicting as the original MOO. And the Metaverse adds another dimension to the experience. But for me, at least, the key has always been the community. It's good to spend time with people by CHOICE just because you genuinely enjoy their company.
With that in mind, I accept any responsibility that people want to throw my way for over-reacting. In the madness of the past week, somebody (Gerakken?) threw out the old Spider-Man quote, "With great power comes great responsibility." Yes, I was (in my opinion justifiably) upset over the actions of a few; but acting on that emotion without fully considering the consequences is something I should never have done. Being one of the recognized voices of a major empire sometimes means you need to take it down a notch and think before you act; to just take one for the team. I didn't, and this place nearly came apart at the seams.
With that in mind, I think it's best if I let the current roster of Jedi find their own identity. An interesting blend of new voices is here, and they don't need to be drowned out by an opinionated curmudgeon like me. Alex has web talents; it might be a good thing to see some major changes for the JR website. And the old guard is still here; in particular, StBlasius and Sherbert seem ready to step up and take over my diplomatic duties.
Likewise, I plan to focus on "fun" instead of "duty." The POSSE's new empire sounds like it's gonna be a blast; if they'll have me after all this ruckus, I plan to send in an application.
Anyway, all, no hard feelings. Just remember to focus on the fun and friendships that this place brings, and not quite so much on betrayals, backstabbings and dirty tricks. The Jedi Republic has some interesting times ahead, but I'm sure that you'll step up and deliver.
And just in case you get lazy, I'm hanging onto my lightsaber. In practice mode, it won't kill you, but it sure will help if I need to come in here and knock some heads.
May the Force be with y'all. Take care.
Obi Wan Kenobi, signing off.
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