I think I started something like this a long, long time ago, but... I'm feeling
reflective. So sue me. I'm curious as to what your evolution as a roleplayer has
been. Where did you start out? When did you start running lists? What's changed
about your play or moderation styles over the years?

For me, it all started with total Mary Sue bliss in the Hercules and Xena fandom
about 11 years ago. I still love those times. Generally Mary Sue-ness is wrong
and bad, but... in context, in that place, it was perfection. Plus it got me
comfortable enough to eventually move out of that and start seeking out other
forum games. At the time it was all Star Wars, Herc & Xena, and a little Buffy
for me. Eventually I even started some forum games of my own.

At the time, I was an unorganized and inexperienced mod. The lists went
relatively well considering that and the fact that I had no clue how to properly
advertise, but eventually I got tired of the forum style. By that time I was on
several mailing lists through Onelist (later to become Egroups and then
Yahoogroups)... and there were rpgs there! I was blissed out. I started several
lists (some of which are still running, albeit with some changes along the way),
I joined even more, and I loved it.

The lists I'm on and run have changed over the years (now my stuff is original,
horror, X-Men, Buffy... okay, it hasn't changed THAT much), and so have I. I'm a
better writer. I'm better at developing characters that will fit into a universe
and enhance it. I'm sooooo much better organized. I can write a set of rules
that actually helps keep order.

My moderation style has also fluctuated a lot over the years. At first I was far
too loose - there was not nearly enough guidance or help from me. Then I was too
strict. Now... I think I have a good balance. Am I picky sometimes? Absolutely.
But it isn't a control freak thing anymore, it's just that after this many
years, I know what I want in a player, and I'm not scared to ask for it.
Sometimes that means people think I'm being a jerk, but it also means that the
games are stronger and better. I'm not scared to ban or unsub people who are
making trouble anymore.

Honestly? I'm proud of where I am as a mod and a player now. Not claiming I'm
perfect by any stretch of the imagination or that I don't get in pissy moods and
say or do dumb things. Of course I do! lol But it's been a fun journey, and I
look forward to what's to come.

So, if anyone actually waded through all that crap, what's *your* story?

Peace & Love,
Beth