Can't we just enjoy the hobby?

Redwood Ryan

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All I see on the forum lately is people bashing the techniques used by others. Bonsai is a hobby, hobbies are meant to be enjoyed. So you don't agree with something someone else does, big deal. Don't go bashing them and telling them they're wrong because you don't like it. I swear I'm three posts away from just leaving this forum.
 
I joke sometimes but try my best not to feed in on those threads. Honest I only see that happen during the very hot weather - kinda like the crime rates going up in cities during heat waves so I stay out of it... Most here are very nice people even the one's that sometimes lose it sometimes *shrugs*
 
Most here are very nice people even the one's that sometimes lose it sometimes *shrugs*


I used to think that but shoot, the arrogance is getting unbearable. I have a good amount of friends on this forum and I'd hate to leave, but if push comes to shove...
 
its pretty easy to ignore the posts of others you don't agree with. :confused:
 
If your not the one in the fight, it can be entertaining! I wouldn't get to worked up about it. Do what ever you want, your trees, your life. Opinions and assholes everyone has one... Some like to show there asses more.
 
Believe me, that's easier said than done.

I see where you are coming from Ryan. You contribute a lot to this forum with pics and threads of what you are doing, so with that said, don't leave, the forum won't survive without people doing just that.

Just develop thicker skin and learn to brush it off. It is afterall a forum, so everyone has the right to participate and share their opinion. That doesn't mean it's right or it even has to be acknowledged.
 
Just develop thicker skin and learn to brush it off. It is afterall a forum, so everyone has the right to participate and share their opinion. That doesn't mean it's right or it even has to be acknowledged.

I've tried, but it's just so damn hard when everywhere you turn you're getting bashed or told you're wrong and that you should quit the hobby, which is something I've even considered.

But you know what? I made it through brain surgery, I can do whatever I want. And that's just what I'll do.
 
I've tried, but it's just so damn hard when everywhere you turn you're getting bashed or told you're wrong and that you should quit the hobby, which is something I've even considered.

But you know what? I made it through brain surgery, I can do whatever I want. And that's just what I'll do.

There ya go.....good luck in whatever you do.
 
I joke sometimes but try my best not to feed in on those threads. Honest I only see that happen during the very hot weather - kinda like the crime rates going up in cities during heat waves so I stay out of it... Most here are very nice people even the one's that sometimes lose it sometimes *shrugs*

You should see these threads in the winter when all the bonsai are sleeping!
 
All I see on the forum lately is people bashing the techniques used by others. Bonsai is a hobby, hobbies are meant to be enjoyed. So you don't agree with something someone else does, big deal. Don't go bashing them and telling them they're wrong because you don't like it. I swear I'm three posts away from just leaving this forum.
I have found that "enjoying the hobby" to its fullest sometimes requires getting away from forums (all of them or just selected ones) for a while. You might be at that point, but if you do go I hope it's just temporary. I enjoy your enthusiasm and am looking forward to seeing what you do with all those ficus trees!

Chris
 
Not sure what threads you're referring to Ryan. I try to read most things here and I hadn't noticed any real pissing matches lately.

To an extent, I like seeing differing opinions on techniques and ways to do things. I learn the possibilities that way. If it gets too intense, I take it with a grain of salt and move on to other threads.

Whenever you get people together in a group, there will be disagreements on occasion. No reason to get upset over it. Most of the time its not a big deal anyway.

I can't believe someone had the gall to tell you should quit. That's wrong and you shouldn't listen to those people. All that matters in the end is the enjoyment you get out of your trees and to hell with what everyone else thinks. Your contributions are appreciated here so I agree with NY, keep contributing.
 
Not sure what threads you're referring to Ryan. I try to read most things here and I hadn't noticed any real pissing matches lately.

To an extent, I like seeing differing opinions on techniques and ways to do things. I learn the possibilities that way. If it gets too intense, I take it with a grain of salt and move on to other threads.

Whenever you get people together in a group, there will be disagreements on occasion. No reason to get upset over it. Most of the time its not a big deal anyway.

I can't believe someone had the gall to tell you should quit. That's wrong and you shouldn't listen to those people. All that matters in the end is the enjoyment you get out of your trees and to hell with what everyone else thinks. Your contributions are appreciated here so I agree with NY, keep contributing.


LOL have you not seen the one entitled "Bonsai Shortcuts" where I was attacked?!
 
Ever find that majority of the folks that usually go around telling others
what they can and cannot do, often don't actually post any pics of their
trees ??? I wonder why they seem to go hand in hand ???
 
Ever find that majority of the folks that usually go around telling others
what they can and cannot do, often don't actually post any pics of their
trees ??? I wonder why they seem to go hand in hand ???

In the game world it is called "trolling" :p
 
LOL have you not seen the one entitled "Bonsai Shortcuts" where I was attacked?!

My internet at home has been down the last few days and I've been busy at work.
Read it a few days ago didn't recall any issues but now I will have to go find it again.
 
2 things.. First, if you are a seasoned forum veteran and did your boot camp back in the day at the Bonsai talk forum. You would be more than ready for anything they have to offer here. Bonsai talk was training under fire..lol.. I would imagine that site ended the budding careers of a few bonsai enthusiasts...lol

Second, I have always believed that whatever look is best for the tree. However, I am probably one of the few that will admit I love the rules of bonsai. I respect them, have familiarized myself with them for the last 15 years and continue to want to excel in the Japanese past and modern traditions. I am a huge advocate of pads, first branch, second branch back branch etc., good taper and triangular structure formats. HOWEVER, no one has the right to try to inhibit or put down other projects that are parts of the art and are fun projects in the eyes of the creator.
The fusing of seedlings and whips attached to cone, is a project that many have undertaken. The results are really nice. If you are not entering a world class exhibition, why not do a project that you find fun. Same thing with Tanuki. Some of them are spectacular, they are art. Now, it is true that they are looked down upon is some circles. However, creating a japanese style masterpiece tanuki can be fun and also can look very beautiful in your yard or even as a greeter plant outside the door to your home. Also, a great conversation piece.

In my opinion, if someone wants to do these kinds of projects. Sure, go right ahead, do it well though. Be thourough, create something beautiful. Bring to life your vision so that others may see it's beauty.:D

Rob
 
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"Answer a fool according to his folly and he will seem wise in his own eyes." That's why I invite people to private messages if they have a gripe with me. Without an audience most people aren't interested, they act less like a smuck and if they don't then you certainly know it's not worth the bother.

Some people love to have chaos swirl around them. I go by the advice similar to the above..."Don't get in an argument with a fool, someone might be watching and not know who the fool is!!"

Don't let someone's chaos become yours!! Peace Brother!
 
Ryan,

I admire you for your work on Ficus trees. I happen to be in the group, that considers that tree, though easy to grow, very difficult to really create good or great bonsai from.
There are several types in growing stages down here, but personally, I would rather spend time exploring the world of Fukien teas, Chinese Serissas, Oxys, Tamarinds and Japanese Black Pines.

Additionally, preference is also for 15 to 18" and smaller. Ficus seem to be better as large Bonsai, say 2 to 3'.

The problem is slowing them down, as they can feed [ almost like orchids ] on plain old water.
Tending to grow out of shape rapidly.
Of course it would be easy to follow the Chinese and focus on decorative roots.

So use your youth to explore and discover the secrets that are still to come on growing Ficus.
In your studio, you are king.
Good Evening.
Anthony
 
Ryan,
I have been lurking here for a while and I have to agree. Some of these peeps are an unfriendly lot and not helpful for the Art of Bonsai. Opinions can a should be expressed in a friendly discussion / debate not an attack on people.

Keep up your Art as you see it, listen with an open mind and ignore the ones who are (insert expletive here)
 
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