Wow.
For the first time in a long time, I am starting to see some fatigue, and frustration setting in for the players of this “Silly ‘Lil Game.” And, I think it is time for a bit of reflection, and a reality check.
First of all…when someone says that they may be taking a break, or slowing down, or are disillusioned with TSTO, it is important to understand that this is a personal choice…and not a slam on anyone else who chooses to continue to play or remain faithful to “Tapping as a way of life.”
That said, there are as many reasons for tapping, or taking a break, as there are players in the game. This is a personal choice, and there is simply no wrong or right answer to “why I tap” or choose not to. M’Kay???
What I have seen, is that the majority of this community is fiercely loyal to one thing…This Community! And for good reason…
What Alissa (and to a far lesser degree those of us who “work” here) have created, is something unique, amazing, and wonderful. The community of TSTO Addicts is FAR more than just a bunch of disparate tappers spread across the globe, looking for tips and tricks to make the game EAsier and more fun. It is a community of individuals, who have come together to share their thoughts and feelings about the game, while agreeing to support one another in a broader sense in this life.
Case in point…over the past few weeks…we have once again proven that we are MORE than just tappers…and have accomplished some things that seem to be elusive to the world at large…especially in this fractious political climate.
But, this is even more than the work we have been able to do as a community, for our “adopted village” of Buyijja, Uganda. Because even these actions required us to “get over our differences” to become a solid, working unit.
I know this, because there have been a smattering of folks lamenting that they “miss TSTOFriends,” and miss the kind of kinship we had with a much smaller, insular group there.
But, I have a reply, that may (or may not) shock you… “GET OVER IT.” Things change. Things evolve.
And. without question, one of the most important decisions I made over the past year was to join forces with Alissa and Joe, and move forward. It was painful to admit that most of the problem was with me…and that we would ultimately be a better final product if we got over our differences and came together. But, the proof has been in the pudding, so to speak. And that pudding, is richer, with more flavors, and a lot more satisfying than anything I did before.
Not sure why the pudding analogy…but, for some reason, now I want pudding.
But, I think that it is important to note, that in both the case of the Water Tank project, and the most recent School Book project, it required donations and support from both my old “family at TSTOFriends” as well as my new family here at TSTOAddicts. We have in a sense become a blended family that has learned that the things that make us similar, can easily outweigh any perceived differences.
And again…it would be pretty nice if the rest of the world could actually get over the “Tribal Walls” that seem to be keeping anyone from actually getting anything of importance accomplished.
In a weird way… by setting aside our differences..and coming together unconditionally, we have actually been able to do something that no other entity, government, or nation has done. Just do the right thing…because it is the right thing to do.
I am extremely proud of what we have done…but, mostly, I am proud of the fact that we have been able to bridge the gap between the past, and build a future together.
Make no mistake about it. In both the game of TSTO and the game of LIFE, solutions come most quickly when a community of like-minded people gather the strength of shared intention, to get something done.
So…for the love of all that is good in the world…don’t let a lull in the game, or displeasure with the programming or dialogue divert us from this simple truth; WE ARE A COMMUNITY OF TAPPERS. We won’t be divided…
Thanks to ALL who donated…but even more important…thanks to all of you who have allowed me and my “other family” to become part of your family. We are stronger for your patience and understanding.
THANKS ALISSA…this place, and all that we can do together, wouldn’t exist without you. Now…ENJOY YOUR VACATION!!
