First published: 8 Mar

I’m relatively new here. I came into this Internet space by a round-about route, and I’ve got to say that it’s a head-spinner! My days as an ESL, English Grammar and Usage, Education and Linguistic Whatever expert on other sites came nowhere near preparing me for the questions the members of this community ask–and need answers to–on a minute-by-minute basis. Maybe someone will eventually need an explanation of the preferred punctuation for quotes-within-quotes within a cited passage, but I’m guessing that’s not how we will roll here.

The community here, international and fascinating as it is, is truly amazing in its collective willingness to trust (you really want me to tell you why you’re leaking odd fluids from your transmission? Whoa!) and to be trusted with important issues. I’m feeling a little honored and a lot nervous, and you’d better believe that every answer I give is checked and double-checked with everyone willing to answer the phone when I call. That number is dwindling, by the way, thanks to that double-edged sword called “Caller ID”. I try not to exit my comfort zone very often, but the intensity of the pleas sometimes overwhelms my better judgment.

The friend who suggested I join the fray is right there in line next to me…next to dozens upon dozens of open-hearted people who are happily lending a cyber hand to fellow travelers in need of advice and information, and it’s well worth the time to do so. I can only hope that when I need to know how to, why to, whether to do something life changing, I’ll find as supportive a group to ask.

To all of you waiting patiently for guidance: Hang in there! Help is on the way from the Best Little Help Desk on the web!