[Coco] What does it mean to be a member of the CoCo community?

[Steve Strowbridge]

So maybe this post will spark some interests and response, but as I compile
my thoughts and experiences of being a part of several CoCo channels, such
as this list, the Facebook page, The Podcast, the comments I get from
around the web on YouTube, it really got me thinking, what does it mean to
be a member of the CoCo community?

   - Is there a hierarchy to it?
   - Is there a reluctance to accept "newcomers"
   - How do the veterans feel about newcomers
   - What are the "requirements" to be "accepted" or be deemed "legitimate"
   - Is there an actual "Great divide" between OS9 and RS-DOS?
   - You name it


All these thoughts and ideas are in the minds of many because I see
questions and comments about them in the various locations I mentioned.

I've heard the term CoCo Luminary mentioned quite a bit, when referring to
someone, and I actually like that word, it makes me think of the illuminati
and the big pyramid eye in the sky.

Certainly there are some founding father type figures that have done major
things to the past and present of the CoCo's history, and those people
deserve proper respect and recognition.

I myself am still very much a newcomer, I've only known about the community
for less than 2 years, and from my experience, I've made a lot of friends
and gained an extended family.

I am not technical in the electronics or software development arenas, but
have a fond appreciation for both, and the people working on projects in
both areas.

My first interactions were on Google+ which led me to Facebook, which led
me learning about the CoCo underdog book, the CoCo Crew Podcast, and the
people who are still talking about this computer every day.

I don't feel like I have any "place" or "level" in this perceived hierarchy
(nor am I seeking any), I'm just a member of this community.

I have been very fortunate to have some of the legends of CoCo creation
spend time with me and give interviews, and even become friends, and I am
humbled by that, but don't in any way think that has "elevated my status."
I have asked other people do do interviews about their projects, and some
people feel that what they are doing is "not worthy" of what other people
have done or are doing.

I think that anybody who is doing anything to help keep the CoCo alive and
well in their hearts, and in the hearts of others, is an equal member of
the community, and regardless of how technical you are, or aren't I would
hope we should all feel the same about each other.

So the combination of my simple mind and big heart think, that no matter
what you are doing with or for the CoCo, you should feel proud about it,
and share it with the community.

Well that's just me, I've always been naive and a big pie in the sky kind
of guy, but hopefully these are some great starting points to get people to
weigh in, love to hear many points of views and perspectives.

And maybe, this can be the topic, or one of the topics we discuss this
Sunday on CoCoTALK!

Steve Strowbridge, aka
The Original Gamer Stevie Strow
http://ogsteviestrow.com
ogsteviestrow at gmail.com