[wplug] Am I a jerk?

[Jonathan S Billings]

Vanco, Don wrote:
> Now at least a couple of you have already hit reply just based on the
> sender and subject... but let me get to my point.
> 
> 	I've been a big proponent of open systems and Open Source
> software for quite some time - long enough that it's now been my
> full-time profession for over 5 years.
> 
> 	I have tried, in whatever ways feasible, to support the
> advancement of Open Source - beta testing primarily (as I am not a
> hacker) but also, in a few cases, with funding.  Good ol' cash.
> 
> 	Over the last few weeks I have made several contributions to
> various software developers (individuals - not groups or projects) - in
> one case, what I consider to be a fairly significant amount (because I
> really, really like the package).  Typically via some means like Amazon
> or PayPal.
> 
> 	My point: to date NONE of them have ever said "Thank You".  
> 
> 	Is this being petty?  Should I just take solace in knowing that
> I'm insuring that my favorite software remains vital?
> 
> 
> 	Perhaps I'm just laying my own expectations on others - but I
> know that if it were me (and some anonymous stranger insured that I'd be
> in pizza and beer for a couple more weeks) I would at least take the
> time to fire off a quick email with "Thanks".
> 
> 
> Don

I tend to encounter similar reactions from developers -- mostly from the 
type of geek with no social skills.  They really don't know they are 
being rude, they just are.

I've also encountered extremely nice developers who basically created a 
mailing list for sponsors, and sent out big thank you notes and secret 
beta code ahead of schedule, as well as neat tricks and tips.

So, I guess it is hard to explain.  I don't think you are a jerk for 
expecting at least a "Thank you" form letter at least.


-- 
Jonathan S. Billings <billings at negate.org>