posted on Aug, 27 2009 @ 01:43 PM
First off, greetings and respect to all here on ATS.
I am a long time reader, but first time poster. I have spent the last few years here on ATS purely as an observer, soaking up all the knowledge that
one can from the outside. I would like first and foremost to thank you all for your countless posts, beliefs, thoughts and most importantly, research.
It has allowed me to form a base of knowledge on a multitude of subjects that would have otherwise taken a lifetime of independent study. Your links,
citing of sources and demeanor in denying ignorance has truly uplifted myself, and is appreciated more than mere words can express. Whether or not I
agree or see eye-to-eye with everyone on these boards is far from important, for every post here has served a purpose. It is through even the negative
and condescending remarks that one can find their own truth, develop patience and understand the difficulties in communication, of which there are
many when regarding the type of material up for discussion.
I have finally taken the first step in becoming a proactive member here, feeling confident that I have gathered enough information to share my
thoughts on the countless subjects at hand. More importantly, I feel confident that my natural understanding, empathy and sincere interest can now be
displayed in a way that is helpful, uplifting and able to advance discussions and provoke deep thought. So thank you again to you all and I look
forward to our future conversations and endeavors together.
A bit of personal information (in-case anyone is interested in my background)
I am 25 years old and a native Virginian. I am currently enrolled at Virginia Commonwealth University after many years of hard manual labor and
otherwise finding who I am and what I would like to accomplish in life. My course of study is that of World Studies with a focus in International
Institutions and Globalization. I am also majoring in International Studies with a focus in Latin America. Minors are in Spanish and Criminal Justice.
If there is anything else that someone would like to know about me in the course of my continued posting please do ask. It is in understanding each
other, and the factors that lead to our development that we can truly gain insight into one another's point of view.