My Thoughts on Being a Member of TQ

[EPC Guy]

I thought that I'd use my 2000th post to talk about what TQ means to me - and now that I've started writing - it's like "where do I start"?

I guess the place to start is at the beginning; like most of you, I was simply looking for a place to find out more about metal detecting and treasure hunting - and while it's true I've learned a lot about our hobby and have become a better MD'er because of being here - the truth is - I've STAYED here because of the people. "Talking treasure" is still important - but the true enjoyment of TQ for me is just staying in touch with all of you.

Take for example, my friend Edie (Pris); without ever having met my wife or me in person, she (and Noelle) drove 4 hours from Laguna Hills to Oxnard / Ventura to spend the day beach hunting with us - just because we were in the area...we had a great day, with dinner and drinks afterward - and when it was time to say good-bye - it was as if we'd known them forever.

I've made friends with Jerry (tklsafe) who lives just a few miles from me. He and I decided to hunt a "haunted" park together...we didn't see any ghosts - but had a great afternoon hunt and once again - it was very comfortable - even though it was the first time we'd met. (We hunted the park again the next day, too!)

The folks I haven't yet met in person will be no different (I'm sure) when I have the chance to meet you in person. I know this, because even though our friendship is now only in cyberspace, I've seen you "walk the walk" not just "talk the talk". From the way the "family" pulled together for Bill and Sherri in their time of need - to comforting members (current and former) in times of illness and other traumatic events - to taking Dylan under our collective wings as "TQ's favorite son" - shows the one thing that's not only missing from other sites - but missing from far too much of our society in general - and that is true, outgoing love and concern for one another.

Don't get me wrong - I'm still all about the treasure !- but all the gold, silver, coins and relics in the world are no substitution for the treasure a person holds when he or she has people that can truly be called family and friends.

I'm proud to be a part of TQ; I appreciate Greg's hard work in keeping this site running. I also appreciate the efforts of Steve in PR, Arkwater, Gordies girl, Pappy and anyone I may have forgotten to mention as moderators...guys, you do a heck of a job.

To the rest of the folks that I correspond with regularly - WAY to many to list - and I KNOW I'd leave out someone - you're great people, and I hope someday to meet all of you in person.

And, TinMan - what can I say? Thanks, brother - you make me laugh...and if laughter is truly the best medicine - I'll live forever!

[EBCIII]

Great post Shawn! I feel the same way myself. This is a great place and the friends and family are the best. Well said, Beale.

[liquid1]

Great post and story EPC and we want hold you being a Texan against you..LOL..I agree 100% this is the coolest and most caring and Helpful forum I belong to.Hey I even met HL on here and we hunt together..And John S.. has helped me leaps and Bounds getting the F75 Dialed in for different types of hunts...And Ali ...is just super cool among others..I want to thank you all..james

[N1TKO]

Nice post Shawn..... I have been watching this thread and noticed posts coming in "slow". I think everyone is thinking the same thing as me; "Where do I start?" Plus I think the "guys" may not want to show their "soft side".... like me!! LOL
Being a fairly new member, I don't know a lot of you but I can say the folks on this forum are not phonies. I've been a member on a lot of different forums and never have I read posts that are sincere as those on here.
The generosity and friendship jumps out of the screen and grabs your heart.

I plan to stay here for a long time and look forward to getting to know each and every guy and gal better. You all make newbies and veterans welcomed and comfortable.
Plain and simple.... You folks are good people.

Jerry

[The TINMAN]

Shawn, Congratulations on now being a TQ Patriot ! What a Great Post for # 2,000 ! Very Well Stated and so True about the Folks Here. Thank You for Your Compliment. I want to say more but as I keep thinking about what You have said I find I need to go find My Oilcan ! We Will meet one day, Thats a TIN Promise !!

Th TINMN

[Buster]

Shawn that was a great post for sure. The 2000th post should be a special one and that is what you have done. Way to go....Also N1tko you said it all. No phonies here, just family.......Buster....

[gordiesgirl]

Wonderful Post, Congrats on the big 2000 you know what my favorite part is........ Now your a Patriot and Patriots WIN all kidding aside, TQ would not be the same without you, Thanks for being such a wonderful friend.

[rip]

[sarge1stone]

Well said Shawn

['E']

Couldn't have said it better myself, Shawn