Concerning new members, we have to understand the perspective of the old
members too. We have new members joining from time to time. It is
understandable that if the group just describe about, say, pigment tissue, in
details last month, and when a new user ask "could someone describe how to
make pigment tissue", he/she will probably not get many responses.
It doesn't mean they are not friendly either. It doesn't mean there is a rule
that once it is discussed, it cannot be discussed again. It is just human
nature. You just can't talk about the same thing again and again and again.
People either get tired or are very busy, so some will suggest you to "read
the archive." It might sound unfriendly and cold, but maybe it is not. It is
a friendly suggestion to let you know that the item is there and that you can
find it there. Just like a librarian guide you to a stack.
For old timers (I don't know whether I myself am new or old), maybe next time
we shall use a smiley when we suggest someone to read the archive. We might
mean it neutrally or friendly, but just the phrase "Read the archive" does
sound a little cold.
For new comers, just remember if the question is very general, most probably
you will be suggested to read the archive because it is true that the
information is already there. If you have specific question, you will find
that this group is, again, "amazingly friendly."
My own testimony: Last month I asked if someone could suggest a starting
formula to make a pigment tissue. I did get a few suggestions of the formula,
but I got more read-the-archive response. After I made my first pigment
tissue, and it didn't quite work out, the posted the problems that I had and
asked for suggestion, and I got tons of information that I almost can be
certain that my next test will be much more successful (although I might be a
little pessimistic). :)
Cheers,
Dave Soemarko B-)