[neilmarr]

On top of a heavy (minimum) 16x7 working weeks in my sixties and in quickly failing health, I squeeze in at least two visits a day to MR. And a habit of mine over the past two and a half years has been to warmly respond to EVERY new comer with a welcome, encouragement and advice when I have it to offer.

As of now, I'm changing this policy and ignoring the introduction section.

The reasons are these, I have little time n the day, (ye gods still only grant me twenty-four hours), most newcomers seem to be drive-by or here entirely for self interest, very seldom is feedback forthcoming or contribution promised. All in all, it's largely futile daily drudgery and a waste of time I simply can't afford.

Although I was once praised by a long-established and admirable member here as one of the 'Knights of the Forum' to go to such lengths in making newcomers feel comfortable, I'm afraid I find my armour has lost its shine. I simply haven't time to keep it up. And I've lost the desire to do so.

Genuine newcomers who intend to become a part of the community, I can welcome in their later, valuable posts when they become actual participants.

I may be justifiably criticised for this (to me) drastic decision to remove myself from this section of forum activity, but I have no choice. It's become drudgery, time-consuming and wastes many minutes and even valuable hours I sorely need for my main job on behalf of authors and in response to genuine and precious members here whose posts are of vital interest and import.

Forgive me, please. But that's it. The decision is made. I'm about to hit the 'ignore thread' option as soon as I post this message at the end of a long visit -- Sixteen hours into my working day, I still have many hours to cover to prepare me for tomorrow's onslaught, whch will start, as usual, at 6:00am my time.

Best wishes and happy weekend to all. Neil