The places that I like to play on the Internet are friendly. A little competitive from time to time, but nothing nasty, no malice ... and even when a difference of opinion arises we talk it out -- comment on comment, thread on thread. But there is a whole other world out there that plays by other rules -- where slander and mean-spirited vitriol reign and are encouraged.
Now, don't get me wrong, I like a good parody as much as anyone. I don't mind poking fun and being poked myself. But all within reason.
So when I read this post by Kathy Sierra I was shocked. Death threats? Promises of violence? Be warned, it is beyond distasteful. There are also links on Kathy's post to those that are considered part of this horrible incident -- if you want to find out, see Kathy's article. I refuse to link to them -- but I know many already do -- they are A-listers after all. And it is our links that put them there.
Of course, the breadth and depth of our own Internet experience (the places we play, visit, read and link) is subject to our own choices. My Internet, in this respect at least, is a bully free zone.
I am not like some who simply exchange links. I am selective ... very selective. BUT ... if you have a post that I find interesting (or even provocative) then I may link to your post or site. And if there is more there for me to read and come back to, then you may end up on my blogroll. It is not much, but I do what I can.
In my view, the treatment of Kathy ... indeed, the treatment of ANYONE, in this manner is unacceptable. It is a black day for the blogosphere ... and the reputations of some have rightly been blackened along with it.
