Author Drake Hunter was kind enough to send us the following comments to
share with you, regarding Internet safety. Drake has been a big help to us
through his successful efforts to increase traffic to our site and by allowing us to
host two of his very meaningful stories, "Through Different Eyes" and "A Yule
Tale." Thank you, Drake.
I am a computer programmer by trade and an author by choice. I work with computer
technology all day long. I write computer code that uses Internet technology, and then
I use the Internet to share my written work. It is a wonderful medium in many
respects, but it is also a place that hides dangers that are not, unfortunately,
immediately obvious. It is for this reason that the warning the young gentlemen of The
Mail Crew give needs to be taken with all seriousness.
We have worked together for almost two months, The Mail Crew and I. It has been
tremendously rewarding for both sides. I have an enormous amount of respect for the
guys because they are civil, consciously active, generous, and they are making the
world a better place. What needs to be pointed out is that our partnership exists only
through the Internet. As appealing as it is to connect a face with a name or a voice
with print, it is not necessary. Our collaboration proves that point. In our working
relationship, I learned of the strictures their parents and guardians imposed on this
venture. I have to make this statement with emphasis:
I whole-heartedly agree with the restriction that they not offer personal contact
information about themselves with any outside entity!
Every mail group following the example of The Mail Crew must -- not should or it's a
good idea -- MUST adhere to this same principle. It is more than just common sense. I
do not fear the Internet because I can use this technology with an advanced degree of
safety born of my employment and interests. However, there are still hidden dangers
even for someone like me. One must be vigilant when using this technology. Simple
things can be used against a person in unimaginable ways. People have lost their lives
because of contacts made on the Internet. Do not let this happen to you. Use every
shred of common sense and intelligence you possess. Your first and primary objective
must always be your personal safety.
Is this a lecture? Yes, and without a doubt. The Mail Crew exists and will continue to
exist because those with more experience in the world thought ahead. Moreover, the
guys were smart enough to listen. They are learning by actively listening. Show the
same wisdom these gentlemen exhibited: follow this very good and very sensible rule.
You have the chance to learn from their experience, so do not waste it.
Do more than be well: Be Safe!
Drake Hunter
January 13,2004