I've actually been trying to write a letter that says a lot of these things myself, Snowgall. I had given up trying to write it because I couldn't seem to phrase it right so that a) you would see my (and others') point without b) hurting your feelings. I figured I would let it sit for a while until I figured it out. But then I saw the sparkly green wrapping analogy, and I do find that both really off the mark and off-putting. Jane isn't saying her cookies are "the best" just by presenting them nicely. It's that exact phrase, "the best", that's at issue here. And really everything Birds said applies to me as well. I never really noticed the title until the people in this post pointed it out, and I've felt guilty for not having seen it or the problem it creates before. Now that I've seen it, my understanding of the situation has been altered, and my feelings have changed.

What I find most bewildering and upsetting is that you've decided to defend your stance rather than consider the change your flist has requested. It does feel as though you care more about random strangers and their clicks and hits than the members of this community and the very people you're reccing. I know that can't possibly be true, but that's what it seems like by your actions and your refusal to bend on this or even see what others are saying.

I hate confrontation. I don't want to hurt you. I'm beyond thrilled that you like my stories, and I'm honored to be considered among your favorites. I just wish I could make you understand why it's uncomfortable to be on either side: to be called "the best" or to be left off a list with that title.

Thank you for listening.