[mou] Records Committees/science

[Jeff and Amy Drake]

In respectful response to Jim's note that "Science is cold, objective, and 
unfeeling.  It deals with truth and the pursuit thereof," I would like to 
remind folks that while such a statement is true insofar as it goes, science 
goes nowhere without the participation of people -- people who know how to 
be warm, objective, and polite.  The unfortunate perception that scientists 
must behave in the same way they analyze data is, perhaps, what has begun 
this discussion thread.

I believe it is the obligation of those of us involved in science whether 
intimately as researchers & records committees or from the edges as 
hobbyists to recall that there are real people at both ends of a discussion 
or data entry and we all deserve to be treated kindly and respectfully. 
While it may take more time and thought to respond to the many records that 
are entered in a way that is supportive and as well as educational, such 
time is well worth the effort.  When responses are made that cause 
frustration or pain it is then incumbent upon the recipient to remember that 
humans are fallible and that forgiveness is a necessary part of this world 
in which we live.

Remember that we are all tied together by our love for birds.  Let that 
similarity be a bridge.

Amy Drake