| …just some thoughts and a little word of encouragement…
Much like most of the folks on this site, I grew up on G.I. Joe. They ended up being a huge part of my childhood and went practically everywhere I went. I have many fond memories of growing up and quite a few of them had G.I. Joe. So when I found a 25th Single card Destro and Snow Job at a local Target in January, nostalgia flooded my memory and I instantly dug out all my old toys.
I am one of those 30 year old guys who just got back into Joes and started collecting. I collect because of the memories and for future memories with my kids. I know that a small minority on the Tank think of guys like me “bandwagon fans” but I don’t mind. Prior to joining the Tank, I’ve only been on a forum once and I hardly ever posted. I thought I’d give this place a chance and see if there was anyone else who was in the same boat as me.
My brief time on the Tank has been an extremely positive experience overall. I found the whole gambit of Joe Collectors…purists, compltists, newbies, seasoned collectors, guys who do this for a living, guys (and gals) who pick one up every now and then for fun and anyone and everyone in between! I think one of the things I love about this place is that there are a vast array of collectors and fans. Everyone brings a very unique perspective to the table. I think it is the best source of Joe news and sightings. I’ve only had positive experiences in trading with other members and met some pretty remarkable people during my time here (i.e. Viper 48, rob0123, Sgt. Mutt, Kalibus…the list goes on). Heck, we even started a fantasy football league with some of the guys here!
I love the Tank…good people, great info and an excellent place for trading. However, I’ve noticed that there is a certain amount of negativity flowing around here as of late. Maybe it has been this way and I’m just now noticing but I’ve seen a steady increase of name calling, accusations and bashing. Now I’m all for the venting of frustration (appropriately) but at the end of the day, they are just toys….Toys to me that are not worth selling our integrity for or getting all worked up about (i.e. repaints…they’re going to happen….let’s move on). Instead of slinging accusation or demanding pics for everything, let’s give our fellow Tankers the benefit of the doubt and a chance to respond. Instead of focusing on Hasbro, let’s focus on all of the AMAZING talent and skill we are seeing in customs that Tankers are cranking out!
Everyone is entitled to there opinion (again, one of the reasons I like the Tank) but perhaps it’s time we focus on why we are on the Tank and what makes Joe collecting so great. There are so many great things about this hobby and this site in particular; it would be a shame not to showcase them.
So thanks to everyone for making this a great site...
p.s. Mods...you guys are doing a great job for thankless work...we all appreciate it. Shogi, the reviews are great.
Last edited by Outbackk; 12-04-2008 at 05:09 PM.
Reason: bolding to emphasize my point
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