Thanks to =shadowed-light-waves for the idea of turning this into a Challenge. She's embracing it already!

I know several others have posted similar articles & journals lately, but due to a few recent comments, I wanted to share my thoughts as well.

You know what I don't get, no matter how often I see it? The immaturity spread out in articles, or comments in general. An individual demanding dA to give them what they want. Flaming people who try & talk some sense into the person, all in a rational way of course. Cutting down $taff & GM's, & everybody else, at every turn because no one is working fast enough. Demanding dates & times for things, which is obviously not possible to do. Or at least, it's obvious to most that it's not possible. Griping or whining about dA Admins not showing Community spirit because something they wanted wasn't masterfully created in 5 minutes. But, that's Community spirit? I think it's a different kind of spirit you're showing when you act like that, & it's one that most tend to frown on.

It takes alot to run a site, especially a massive one. With tons of projects being worked on all at the same time, it's impossible to give a date when a particular thing will be done. Things come up. Either another project will need to take precedence over a current one, or bugs need to be ironed out enough to hit the launch pad, or people may come down with the flu...

People get busy, with life outside of dA. No matter who you are, no one deserves to be harassed for not jumping right on something right away. For not replying to a comment, or for not doing whatever it is someone expects of them.

Real Community spirit is about reaching out to others & proving, time & time again, that you really care about the Community. No matter what it takes. It's not about lashing out at dA Admins, or anyone for that matter, & it's not about trying to always "get the last word". When you feel a childish moment coming on, just sit back & take a deep breath. Remember that you're better than that, better than acting in a foolish way. That we're all better than that. If we really care about the Community, then being the better person in a situation won't be so hard to do.

Less time spent on anger & negativity, or trying to prove a point or have the last word, trying to be "seen" & get popularity votes through negative actions, is more time spent on getting to know others & seeing with open eyes what they have to offer. We get to finally enjoy this site for all that it is, so that we can appreciate all the things it will be.

Need help getting up out the mud & muck? Here....take our hand. We're here to help you.

The Challenge

The Challenge is simple. Just do something nice for someone. If you're out browsing, & you happen to notice someone seems to be having a bad day, leave them a nice comment somewhere. Find something nice in their Gallery, & Fav it. Do a Journal feature on one of their pieces. When you see a Deviant who may be lashing out at someone else, give the person a big hug. Better yet, give them a both a big hug!

I'll gladly feature those who spread positivity around! We all need it! And for those who do, if you let me know about it, I'll do a nice loving feature on you.

So, what are ya waiting for? Get to spreadin'!