I am sorry I have to make a reply late. I was without an Internet
connection until today. I hope to address everyone's concern as
follows:
[Group dynamics]
1. Thank you to everybody for the valuable suggestions you have put
forward. I am moved by your sincerity, and I truly believe that with
everyone's support, the list will remain a high-quality discussion
group for many years to come.
2. I am thankful for the support from everyone on the list since its
early dayd. I am currently in a transition phase to a permanent job.
Many uncertainties remain, so I am unable to plan much ahead. When
things get more positive, I promise to work out a plan to have more
Pali for the group.
3. Personally, where the Pali texts is concerned, I don't think we
are covering too wide a range of topics. However, I shall change
topic 6 from "Tipitaka translation theory and practice" to "Pali
translation theory and practice". I think it better reflects our
central theme of being "Pali-focused and Nikaya-centric".
4. I concur with Nina to concentrate on the texts. By being "Pali-
focused and Nikaya-centric", should there arise any arguments on
Abdhidhamma issues, we should go back to the nikayas.
5. I wouldn't want to have any posting guidelines for now. We should
respect an individual's style, as long as it is friendly and non-
abusive. New members are under moderation, and people making personal
attacks will be publicly rebuked for their unacceptable behaviour. It
is also possible for a person not under moderation to be moderated
again, or completely banned for posting.
6. As long as a topic matches the group's subject interests, it is
welcomed. However, there are certain topics, such as the ones leading
to this post, that can be tricky and inconclusive. Such topics are
less suitable for a mailing lists. They are more appropriate on a web-
forum, or offline discussions (emails, phone, letters, face-to-face,
etc.).
[Curfew imposed, Cool-off demanded]
7. I call for the discussion of antaraabhava to be adjourned
indefinitely.
8. At the same time, I like to put in place the suspension of all
discussions for ten days, except for replies to this mail, and the
Pali Day by Day series C/D/E. This should provide sufficient time for
everyone to cool down from the heated arguments. All discussions may
resume on 24 June as long as it does not mention antaraabhava.
[Conclusion]
9. Last but not least, I am grateful for your kind complements.
Unlike many of the experienced and learned members on the list, I am
very much a beginner in Pali studies. It is unfortunate that I am
unable to make a "judgment call" for the foregoing arguments. Having
being on either side of similarly heated arguments before, I can
understand it is difficult to stand down. However, it is apparent
that such inconclusive arguments bring little benefit to the majority
of the members. Hence, it would be better that we wind it up before
it cripples the functions of the group.