I think that in some cases; people find it hard to see that there are better ways, because they’ve been hit in the face with life. Bills are piling up and they tend to take our focus away from other things we could be doing.

Unfortunately, that is the foe we’re really battling-life. Until they can get their head above water, it’s going to be a long and exhausting battle on our end. If we keep getting our message out there, eventually it will pay off, at least we hope anyway.

I've heard the frustration from both sides. We all have. I hope that we can put down our respective banners for a minute and really think about how each side came to hold such opinions.

Becky, no apologies necessary. You spoke your mind, and I'm glad you did. I thought your contribution was well thought out and appropriate. Please don't worry about causing ruckuses (ruckusi?) with your posts ever – in this case, at least, it was pretty clear you weren't intending to. You're sweet to worry about it. :))

I can only imagine your headaches from all of this. I've been thinking about this topic for a new blog I'm starting, but now I'm not so sure I want to talk about it! Not the controversy, but my experiences with DS.

And I've learned how addicting Farkle is, which is why I am absolutely staying away from Farmville. I have enough time sucks as it is!

I didn't mind the anonymous comments. People sometimes feel more inclined to speak their true feelings that way. Now if they were hiding behind the anonymity as an excuse to cause harm, no way. That's inexcusable and cowardly. Luckily I didn't see that happening. This time.

Kathy, I LOVE how you were suddenly the center of the controversy! LOL What I didn't reveal was that the post that originated all this came indirectly through your blog. I saw Carson's post and followed some of his links, etc. So I guess it's all your fault. LOL!

Gabriella, I'm glad for the chance to unwind, believe me! I can't really agree with the no-degree-no-talent notion, as I was once a non-degreed writer. Some of these people here have no degrees, but oodles of talent. So no, can't say I'm with you on that one. 🙂 But I do agree that a writer with a degree taking a low-paying job such as that should be questioning why. And perhaps should be rethinking his or her career avenues.

Carrie – :). Sometimes it's all we need to, huh? I want you to know I appreciate you. :))

And sometimes that's all we have.

I'm sorry but I got totally lost in the whole content mill thing so stayed out until the dust settled. However, I didn't think it got so nasty that people will fall out. I think it was a good debate and good for you for letting it take place. I would have liked to have seen a few more names on the "anonymous" posts, people should have the courage of their convictions, but that's just my opinion.

I think you need a bit of a break now, though. Tell you what, Lori, take the next couple of days off, yeah? :o)