Job Discussion Forums

[Truth Hurts]

John

Mr Gridley?

No firing here and please accept my apologies!

TH

[johnslat]

Dear Truth Hurts,
No apology required - a little give and take makes the board interesting, I'd say. It's difficult, communicating this way - nuances are missed, meanings can be misinterpreted. But it's still a great way for people far distant from each other to exchange ideas and opinions. And who knows - maybe someday we'll actually get to meet - inshallah.
Regards,
John

[Paul in Saudi]

I agree, it has been a pleasure to talk to you all.

Still, I have to wonder if this is really helpful to the Cafe. After all there are lots of places to talk politics.

Rarely with such fine people however.

Thanks.

[johnslat]

Dear Paul in Saudi,
Well, I must adimit I occasionally get a twinge of conscience about posting on what might be seen as not strictly "job-related" topics. However, as I mentioned, I think the turmoil in the Middle East IS job-related in a number of ways. The China section has an "Off-Topic" Forum, and maybe Saudi Arabia should have one, too. However, none of the moderators seem perturbed by what's being discussed here; as far as I know, there have been no deletions, no "warnings". And it's not as if we're "taking up neeed space"; I mean, my knowledge of cyberspace is very limited, but isn't it just about infinite? Moreover, those who object to discussions of this nature can simply choose not to read or post on these threads. I don't really know if it's "helpful" to the Cafe (though a little controversy probably adds some interest), but I can't see how it hurts (except, of course, Truth Hurts). So, what the heck, why not - at least until/unless we get "shut down"?
Regards,
John
P.S. Hmm, as I recall, talking politics (among others subjects) in the Kingdom was not always too wise an activity. I agree completely, however, with your evaluation of the participants - including, of course, myself.

[Paul in Saudi]

You bring out an important and valid point. I recently took the family to Las Vegas and everyone repeatedly expressed concern for my safety here.

I know the situation here better than they do. I feel safe. But, on the other hand, you can never tell when you are deluding yourself., by definition.

The stresses in the region, and they way they impose stress and danger on us who work here is an interesting topic that should be studied.

As for discussing politics here, the danger is the corrosive effects would destroy or fragment our little community. I suppose cyberspace is infinite.