I suppose if it were my Son, I'd get pretty frustrated, because I care that he learns, and avoids the pitfalls I had when I was trying the same thing, with no one around to ask advice from.

...However, one of the many lessons of life I've learned in my 45 years here on earth (almost 46), is that you cannot save someone who doesn't want to be saved...

This forum is interesting, in that there are no "real" gurus here, since nobody really "knows" anybody else. There is a perception of knowledge, however. This perception seems to grow with good advice, and fall with bad advice.

I suppose one should find areas that they feel confident, and share their experiences if so inclined. Perhaps, when they have a question later down the line, the same courtesy will be extended.

If nothing else, proposing a suggestion that is ignored certainly generates a discussion environment, and if we follow the "be polite" policy set out by Kai, we all can get something out of the conversation - even if the OP (orignial poster-guy)gets up and leaves the forum!

Another thought on the discussions here - In the past, I have had to mediate a room full of engineers during one of our many "brainstorming" sessions, and actually ask people to leave because of the sarcastic responses. I've come to the conclusion, "there are no stupid questions, only inexperienced people asking them", and I am here to help the inexperienced people become experienced. That's it...It makes me feel good to share something I figured out...When I read sarcasim from somebody, I can either take it personally, or figure they had a bad day (like someone ran over their dog, or maybe they were abused as a child)...

'nuf said, enjoy the forum - When I get tired of it, I'll find another to join - I suggest you do the same, as I suggest everyone here do the same...

Good luck,

-db