One of the things that has always helped define the ineffable Spirit of the Mudcat for me has been the remarkable degree to which people are willing to do a little leg work for each other (Oh, Spaw, just drop it!! ;>)). Seriously, it is often the case that a complete stranger who happens to know where to find something will spend half an hour assembling some links, just to be helpful.

This is genuine, unselfish help, done out of voluntary good will.

There ain't no way to mandate and even it there were, it wouldn't be the same.

As a newcomer to the Cat this kindness took me by surprise, and gradually I learned how to do my own legwork.

I think helping people and trying to answer their questions is a good motto, up to a point; and makes the forum a better place. And helping them by showing them how to use the DT/Forum search is extra good.

I just realized I am saying things that are obvious, and speaking in platitudes.

Tough.

A