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cabo_sailor · 09-05-2011, 21:02

I just now looked and there are over 1,000 lurkers!!!!!

I'll be the first to say there is so much I don't know it's pitiful but for all you lurkers, c'mon in the water's fine!

You have no idea how much fun and satisfaction those of us with boats and a modicum of experience have in helping those that are just beginning. Do we always agree? No way! That's sailing/boating. I was a geologist, I suppose I still am, and we had a saying "Three geologists, one rock, four opinions". Same here.

Many of you are just curious but you wouldn't be lurking if you didn't have questions as well. Well bring'em out. It's a very rare day when someone asks a question and gets slammed for it. What I like to point out is that despite stories to the contrary I was not born knowing how to sail or run a boat. I know, hard to believe, but true.

I try to contribute what I know or think I know but at the same time I'm learning every time. Jump in and soon you will be contributing your experience or perhaps we can keep you from the really serious/expensive experiences.

So come on, every question you ask makes the rest of us more knowledgeable. I was a scientist for many years and found the best way to learn was to try to teach.

I hope I've not overstepped the bounds of the board by posting this but if so, moderators, feel free to delete this post.

It's just not permission to come aboard but welcome,

Rich

Capt Phil · 09-05-2011, 22:31

Well said, Rich... what the hell is a lurker? How do I find one? Do they smell funny? Are they just folks who troll CF seeing if they have anything in common with those who are members? Many, perhaps, could make a positve contribution... although maybe not! Love your boat, by the way... outstanding seakeeping capability... delivered one from San Diego to San Francisco several years ago. Believe the owner trucked it from there to the PNW. Cheers, Capt Phil

RCard · 09-05-2011, 23:05

So, if i make a post am I no longer considered a "lurker"? I've been searching, reading and learning over the past year. I read the forum almost everyday. I do not know how to sail, which I hope to correct this summer. I'm still trying to figure out the difference between a Jib, Spinaker, a Genoa, a Genacker, etc.... But, if I can't find an answer I will ask. I really like the attitude most people have on this forum.

Happy Sailing

MichaelC · 09-05-2011, 23:13

Hey, Arcard. Try jib, staysail, gaff main. [Sorry, just had to throw the monkey wrench in ....] this site is an awesome repository of knowledge. but you don't really get access until you try.

**hummingway** · 09-05-2011, 23:30

Welcome RCard. Glad you decided to post.

meburma · 09-05-2011, 23:41

I've been finding RCard that the best way to learn is to participate! Nothing beats a little interaction with people who know what they are talking about!

SaucySailoress · 09-05-2011, 23:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by meburma

I've been finding RCard that the best way to learn is to participate! Nothing beats a little interaction with people who know what they are talking about!

So where d'ya reckon we can find some of them?

anjou · 10-05-2011, 01:15

Old Chinese saying

Tell me and I will forget
Show me and I might remember
Involve me and I will understand.

Get involved and learn.

ducky · 10-05-2011, 04:30

I am a long time lurker and intend to stay that way. Oh wait..... crap

Blue Stocking · 10-05-2011, 04:38

RCard,
My wife tells people that I possess the widest range of the most useless knowledge that she has ever encountered.

I gleaned much of that here.

Seriously though, I find it difficult to walk past my desk without checking in.

Capt Phil · 10-05-2011, 07:59

Great Shot, Ducky! Capt Phil

**hummingway** · 10-05-2011, 08:02

Welcome Ducky, even if you appear only reluctantly.

**boatman61** · 10-05-2011, 08:09

RCard... Ducky... Greetings and Salutations...
Long may the addiction be with you... Welcome to CF...

cabo_sailor · 10-05-2011, 08:46

Well that's two who are no longer lurkers. Only 998 to go.

Remember there are no stupid questions, stupid answers perhaps, but you can decide on that. Everyone of us started at the beginning and some were lucky to know that the pointy end is the front of the boat. Ask and ye shall learn, and most folk here enjoy teaching.

Rich