Very nicely said. Just today at lunch a friend of mine was telling me of an acquaintance that was once an IBM MVS mainframe guru. Today that individual can not find a job.

>>>PMFJI and with all due respect...
>>>
>>><snip>
>>>>>How is Whil's behavoir irresponsible?
>>>>
>>>>The fox is my living and not only mine. Thinking of that he should have chosen his words with more care.
>>>
>>>Are you saying that posters can say what they want here unless it has a detrimental effect on you?
>>
>>Jos, I haven't said that.
>>
>>
>>>And, fwiw, I dont think that Whil has anywhere near the "power" over the usage of VFP you seem to think he has. Do you think that because of Whil's post and his change of direction in book publishing that tens of thousands of VFP developers around the world are going to stop using VFP? I would continue to use VFP even if big Bill himself said he doesnt want it anymore.
>>
>>IMO, Whil does have power indeed. He's an icon.
>>
>>
>>>>>>My comments are not about what he's done for the vfp community. It's clear that he has done a lot. I also am of opinion that he has the right to move on. But he's criticizing us/me/some, and we/I/they have a right to react..
>>>>>
>>>>>Where did Whil criticize you?
>>>>
>>>>He has not given names. Please reread my initial message.
>>>
>>>Peter, please, this is paranoia. He is simply saying that "some" people have said some things. If the comment doesnt apply to you then ignore it. Its not about you.
>>
>>But that's the point. He is not simply saying that "some" people have said some things. Please reread his text. You have to admit that he accused in the wild without giving names and he also gave a crisp and clear opinion about those who 'hang around' in forums, you included.
>>
>>I want to be constructive in my comments. Although Whil has said that he won't react (unless in private), I think he should react. (Yes Whil, I think you should react.) Reactions can take away misunderstandings and can clarify issues.
>
>Peter;
>
>Let me say that I do not like in line comments, < snips >, partial of full quotes taken out of context, for starters.
>
>No one can please everyone. I agree with Chris – why do you not take up where Whil left off? Assume his role as a contributor to Visual FoxPro. Do not condemn Whil for being honest and wanting to survive and raise his family. It seems your life is closely tied to VFP. That being the case leads me to conclude you must do more to insure the longevity and importance of VFP as a software development tool.
>
>I think that Whil’s words were a clarification of what he is doing and why. It seems like a simple business decision. Whil owes no one an explanation. You make accusations that are unfounded. I have not the time to define and consider each one. You seem to think that Whil is “the” or “a” cause of VFP going by the wayside.
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>Whil has given much to the community and there comes a time when a person realizes it is time to move on. Moving is a difficult thing to do and is full of chances and the unknown. Moving could be used in a context of a new location, job, career, etc. It takes courage to make and carry out decisions.
>
>Why should Whil address any issues related to anyone’s “feelings”. Your comments seem based upon emotion and you demand names and examples. I would suggest you missed Whil’s points and have taken this as a personal affront. Some comments made about Whil on the various forums were very pointed and negative.
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>Forums are visited by many types of persons, and you never know what to expect. I can understand why Whil avoids Internet forums and from his original statements I cannot argue against his points. Whil did not make his decisions to hurt you or anyone else. I think what has happened to you is that your “hero” now appears as a mere man and not a “god”. Your disappointment with Whil’s decision has hurt you personally and emotionally. VFP will not be here forever regardless of how much we like and appreciate the product. Time moves on and so do people.
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>Everyone should make his/her decisions in life. According to the timeworn adage, if you walk a mile in someone's shoes, you'll be less inclined to criticize them because you'll know more about them.
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>I remember the words of the President of AutoDesk, who has a PhD. “I have had 17 different jobs in my career. Nine no longer exist. I suggest to everyone in technology to keep abreast of changes. Remain in higher education to have a skill set that is current and of value and watch the market”!
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>Who is to blame when a person’s skill set and the market have changed? What happens when there is no longer employment within your field? Be positive about life and what it brings you. You are the one who makes decisions for yourself. Others do not understand your circumstances and should not criticize you.
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>I take survival as my living mode and do my best to provide support for my family. This is my most important topic – survival! I have not blamed anyone for my career changes but I have managed to survive. Do not look upon and blame others for actions that are out of your and their control.
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>Tom