Job Discussion Forums

[Marcoregano]

I've only been using this forum for about 4 weeks (and will probably vanish from the scene again soon), during which time I have witnessed a range of posts from a range of posters, from helpful and informative to unhelpful and downright rude. In my humbe opinion perhaps the only person who has consistently handed out sound, reasonable advice clearly backed by a depth of understanding of our profession is Johnslat, who unfortunately is about to leave for pastures new (or should that be pastures revisited?). I guess we'll never meet but thanks for the time and the advice and best of luck. BTW, I hope you continue tuning in from time to time when you're back at the ranch.....I might need some online support in a couple of months when my new classes begin. Adios for now, Mark in HK.

[Irish]

Mark:

Thanks for starting this thread, which we all knew was bound to appear as the fateful day approaches. Although you've only been here a short time, I'd say your analysis is quite accurate. John's a rare bird in these parts: a gentleman and a scholar. He's honest but never patronizing, not afraid of debate but never stoops to childish aggression, and smart as a whip yet never above engaging in plain fun. Heck, even his humour is intelligent. He's not the only poster like this but it's a small group indeed.

The bad news for his fellow citizens is that we're losing one of our great representatives abroad, even though it's only in a small part of the world. (Non-US citizens take note: GWBush = atypical wacko, johnslat = real American guy). The good news is that he plans to teach once he returns home. Almost makes me wish I was a kid again and could have him as a teacher. Almost.

Aloha, John. Enjoy your Utopia but don't be a stranger 'round these parts.

P.S.--If you feel overwhelmed by modesty, John, don't worry. I'm sure we'll get around to roasting you.

[johnslat]

Dear Marcoregano and Irish,
Golly - my first inclination ( as usual ) is towards flippancy - you know, posting something like: " Well, it's about time that my sterling qualities were recognized ". But, quite honestly, I'm honored that you saw fit to post such flattering ( accurate, but still flattering; well, you didn't expect me to resist flippancy forever, did you? ) comments. I have no intention of deserting Dave's once I'm back in New Mexico - although there will probably be a short hiatus as I conduct my " Farewell Tour " down the east coast of the USA, mooching off various relatives and friends. This little community on Dave's has helped me preserve whatever small shreds of sanity I still may retain after 19 years in the Kingdom. We may never meet, but nevertheless, I feel that I know some of you pretty well, and I'm proud to be in your company. Like the children of Lake Woebegon
you're all, in my opinion, above average in what really matters: decency,
courage, curiosity, kindness and dedication, to name but a few qualities.
Maybe it comes with the territory - EFLers, in my experience, are just not your average bear. You wrote about what I may have contributed to Dave's, but let me assure you - I have gained so much more.
Thank you
Blushing John

[guest of Japan]

I told you that you were too humble. Even your flippancy sounded contrite. Try again.

You certainly made this forum worth visiting. Thanks.

[PanamaTeacher]

John thanks for all your help, stay in touch amigo. I like your combination of wit and wisdom, but I'll never dine in your house. If you ever come to Panama, dinner is on me (I pay). We'll talk about Okies.

[khmerhit]

Decidedly, Mr Johnslat is an honourable man. In the Renaissance he would have been called un uomo di virtu. Best of luck to you John and thank you for your inspiring words.

[zakiah25]

Dear JohnSlat,

New Mexico! Don't they have deserts there too? If so, I'm sure that Manfred would love to visit you there - just don't make him into a casserole!
Now, who am I going to bang Kanjars with in the Middle East forums?
best wishes
Zakiah (and a big sloppy kiss from Manfred)

[Wolf]

Best of luck in New Mexico, johnslat. Your presence here was a good influence - and source of adivce - for many of us.

I'm sure however, that we haven't heard the last of you.

[Shonai Ben]

John:
You are a cool dude in my books.
Lots of good posts and lots of good information.
No flames that I can recall.
Don't be a stranger.Keep in touch.
I hope you don't suffer from reverse culture shock when you return home.
Cheers dude.
SB

[johnslat]

Thanks to all of you - but I promise you haven't heard the last from me.
In the immortal words of that great 20th century philosopher, Arnold Schwarzenegger:

" I'll be back "

Oh, and I don't suppose any of you will be too angry if I reveal now that I've got another user name: Marcoregano

Regards,
John

[NK2001]

Just wanted to add my thanks for sharing your great sense of humor and to say you'll be missed while you're smooching off relatives and friends. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one that does that when I visit home.

[rogan]

So what is your location johnslat?
Saudi or HK ?

[veiledsentiments]

Ha! Rogan-- he gotcha!!

He was trying to suggest that he wrote that glowing starter message himself.

I just want to add that what I said to myself when John reported that he would still come back and visit us from New Mexico.

il'hamdulilah!! mash'allah!! (as his students would say)

VS

[rogan]

It's just too easy to trick me - I actually believe what people say (even though I understand irony and sarcasm)

I sometimes manage to understand the odd American (cf British English is annoying!)

[rogan]

ADDENDUM

I'm not totally naive, however.

I take, with a pinch of salt anything that is written on a CV.

And I ignore three-quarters of what is stated on a resume.