This is my very first post (except for the one where I introduced myself) and I don't know if I can really attribute something to the discussion, but hey, I'm here now so I give it a go.
I have been reading here for a few months and one of the things that struck me on this board (except for the VERY interesting findings/facts/opinions on the hoax) was the way you guys interacted with each other. I have also said this in my other post, but I found it really remarkable and so refreshing. People that treat each other with respect. People that are kind to one another. People that express their love and friendship for each other (you even call each other family) without even having seen each other 'live'. I only know of one other board where people were also kind and respectful (a Dutch board about attachment parenting, so something totally different than this) and not rude, offensive or ridiculizing. It's really something to be proud of.
In this thread in particular, I see that the atmosphere is changing. And I blame stress for it. The deadline TS gave us for Michael to BAM is approaching rapidly, and I cannot imagine what it would be like for you guys to even consider it might not happen. You have given so much of your lifes to investigate the hoax. If Michael doesn't BAM by January 1st (which I certainly do not hope or think, but of course it is a possibility), it will be difficult. So I'm sure there's stress. And that makes it harder to be our kind, loving selves. Because you really are kind and loving, all of you. Believe me, as an 'outsider' I really feel that.
As far as the BAM is concerned, I really really really hope it will come (of course I do!), also for selfish reasons, I admit, because I miss him, and I want to be sure that he is indeed alive (I'm about 99% convinced, it would be nice, I mean absolutely fantastic, if that would be a 100%. Being a knower instead of a believer). It would make me feel better. I would be so happy for him and his children and family (although that will not be needed because obviously they know he never died). So yes, that's selfish. But more importantly, I think the BAM will have far-reaching effects on the world. Opening their eyes to not believe everything the media say/write/show them. Letting them think for themselves. And I think the fans, believers and non-believers, and hopefully other people as well, will really get the message Michael wanted to get across for so long. Because as you know (but many others out there don't) there is SO much more about him than just his incredible dance moves and fantastic songs.
Of course the BAM will not solve world problems. Michael can't do that. But he can certainly be a huge help. He has so many fans all over the world, and he will intrigue so many other people with this hoax and hopefully influence them and get them to change their behavior, to start with the man or woman in the mirror. Because in my opinion not so many people do that. The fact that there are so many boards on line in which people are just plainly rude and hurtful to each other proves this. But I also see it in my environment. Judgemental people that are not very kind and tolerant and helpful towards other people, their friends and family aside. It saddens me and it frustrates me. And I do (and will continue doing) everything I can to make sure my own children will not turn out like that. And giving the good example is in my opinion the key for this, not 'making them be nice' with rewards or punishment.
What I'm trying to say is that maybe in this stressful times we need to tolerate more from each other. I think everybody here has good intentions and a good heart. Let's keep that in mind.
As for the BAM, in Michael's words:
Keep the faith
Because it's just a matter of time.
You guys are wonderful. People like you give me faith and hope for this world.
