Response 001
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: The constant hatred amongst everybody! a collection of divas that enjoy having their views heard yet other opinions offend them!
Macro-Suggestion: Make a strict rule! If the group is for news then keep it to news. Anyone begins debating the way they act above then remove and block them
Micro-Suggestion: Nothing as I no longer take part in the online community due to lack of mature conversation
Praise: Honestly? For the online community absolutely nothing.
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Response 002
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I would say we are dysfunctional because of a mixture of self importance and laziness. Everyone wants to talk, but not many want to actually do anything.
Macro-Suggestion: I don't have an answer. I get more people involved by breaking down smaller interest groups, but even then it is more of the same. A few people work their butts off and the rest talk about it, or complain about how it is being done.
Micro-Suggestion: In my own groups I try to offer a lot of area's of interest. This with the hope that people will stand up more and do more.
Praise: I believe that there is a good amount of people who do the lions share of the work to provide information, education, forum's and international community out reach.
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Response 003
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I feel the worst would be those who think others are invalid because their views or ways differ from their own.
Macro-Suggestion: I can't really say what you should do as people will be people. I can say a little more tolerance for those who are new to the community is needed.
Micro-Suggestion: Quite honestly, I am one of the quiet ones because I am kindof new.
Praise: It is informative and helpful in networkin and education.
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Response 004
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I think in general, the manner in which the community is conducted is more than satisfactory. The newly awakened to are tended to correctly as well as given the correct information if they are searching for it. Most conversations are regulated well enough that they stay on topic, and the trouble makers are generally dealt with in an appropriate manner. Now to addressing the debilitating attribute; Grandiosity. I feel that those in the community who make the vampire community seem like such a big exclusive club are the ones making this community fall apart. I feel these narcissistic feelings create problems with newly awakening vampires in that, if they get the wrong impression of the community they may gain unrealistic expectation of how they are supposed to act, and that is not the point of this community. This also effects the way non-vampiric people look at our institution. They too can get the wrong impression coming into the community. With the wrong first impressions we will not be taken seriously as a community as a whole and that is a big problem.
Macro-Suggestion: The community as a whole should mediate better how we conduct ourselves. We should make sure we do not seem the community so Grandios or we will come off as a form of cult, which is not what the community as a whole is. As we cannot expect all member to conduct themselves properly, we should start by moderating who all comes into our communities whether online or offline. If it comes to the point of having a set list of questions that can measure the individuals motives in joining the community, this may help us understand what to expect when acquiring new members. there are many small things like the example of above that can be done to regulate our members behaviors without just outright excluding or denying access to the community.
Micro-Suggestion: as an individual, i plan on continuing to maintain a humble attitude within the community. i am grateful to be here, it is a privilege. But i am tired of many members treating it as their right as a vampire to act like we are an exclusive community. So in order to remedy this i plan on continuing to educate and set an example of how he should carry ourselves as members of this institution.
Praise: I believe the way we accept new members and educate them is very effective. especially in the online community, the information is not just handed to anyone who falls upon the page. Sometimes some digging is in order to find what one is looking for, which i believe proves ones commitment to learning about vampirism and certainly weeds out a lot of the trolls. The forums i have been on so far seem to conduct themselves very well, conversations seem to, for the most part, stay on topic and trouble-makers are dealt with acoordingly when necessary.
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Response 005
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: A large part of it is the lack of any accountability or consequences for stupidity. When we have people loudly proclaiming they speak for the vampire community, then committing crimes, it tarnishes the entire community. Unfortunately, because we are a loosely aligned group of independent thinkers, with wildly varying practices and ideas on what makes a "real vampire", I don't think many of us can honestly say that this person or that person is not a part of our community. We feel unable to properly judge; more, wonder if we even SHOULD judge the behavior of others. Thus, most of the people who assume those powers, turn out in large part to be the ones who are most unfit to speak for us in any way.
Macro-Suggestion: At some point, a ruling council was proposed who would take these cases and judge them on merits. While there's always been an unofficial "council" of elder vampires, for the most part this group advises only. They're like the UN--they can present the problems to the rest of us, but they don't have any actual power beyond the weight of their words. I honestly think that we should form an official council. Any authority is better than none.
Micro-Suggestion: I'm not planning on changing what I do now, which is to generally keep my head down and keep active from a very long distance. There's not a lot of vampires I really, deeply trust at present.
Praise: There's a very, very slim number of people who actually seem to think things through and give good advice. I'm happy to know a few of them, and they're all devoted to helping newcomers to the community, a sort of independent counseling, so to speak. I help out occasionally at the Sanguinarius Center in Second Life, so I see a lot of their efforts in person.
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Response 006
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Big egos. People who are convinced their ideas are correct based on faulty logic, while dismissing the ideas of others who are not in their group or who have actual medical degrees. People repeatedly publishing articles with inaccurate or dangerous information. People who can't disagree without being argumentative. Idiotic politics.
Macro-Suggestion: Raise our standards, at least among the so-called leadership. And stop tolerating bad behavior.
Micro-Suggestion: There is not a hell of a lot I can do as an individual. The two choices I see are a) model the behavior I want to see (which is unlikely to bear noticeable results) or mostly avoid the VC as I am seriously getting burned out.
Praise: There are some good sites out there with really good information, as well as a handful of people (both prominent and not) who I still respect, based on their intelligence and behavior. They are the only thing that stops me from walking away altogether.
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Response 007
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Hard to explain. I believe all of the above effect the community. It really is hard to put a finger on the greatest dysfunction. I think though Grandiosity would be the greatest thing we could work on. I believe though the major problem that isn't addressed is deception. Deception of self and others. There are all things we don't want to come to terms with that we never really accept and we deceive ourselves into believing they aren't problems.
Macro-Suggestion: everyone, take stock of what they believe in, accept that others may believe differently and are not wrong for doing so, looking at your values, examining your history and what you tried to achieve
Micro-Suggestion: change, acceptance
Praise: No right or wrong. I believe communication across the community which is developing is a positive.
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Response 008
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I think the main thing that's wrong with the VC ,as a community, is the fact that so many constantly debate every lil detail about what a vampire is or origin.
Macro-Suggestion: Pick a goal. Work on that goal till its COMPLETE.
Micro-Suggestion: I have cut my interaction pretty much off with the VC as far as sites and groups.
Praise: Nothing comes to mind.
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Response 009
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypochondria
Complaint: Dismissal of the few real sufferers of the condition as unfluffy monsters who seek to bring the rest of the "family" down.
Macro-Suggestion: Burn it to the ground and let what will be be. Less focus on organisation, more on help.
Micro-Suggestion: Drink until you all go blurry.
Praise: Slinky's pretty cool. Other than that ....
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Response 010
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: To much bashing and not enough previous involement from the older more positive and knowledgeble members of the community. Many disapeared long ago then show up years later to dictate from the very subculture they chose to ignore and not to be involved in. A lot of seperatism. The drama is not new. Its just more centralized and publicised on facebook and online. So stop pretending it is new. The seperatism and drama has been going on for years. With members being looked down upon by the elders. I think a lot of animosity built up over the years by the younger members against the older members because of their I am better than you attitude.
Macro-Suggestion: Use more manners. Step outside of our comfort zone and learn and realise that there are more ideas and theories as to the nature and history of the Vampire/Vampyre. Stop running away and hiding within your house and groups when things get rough and ugly. As an elder if you choose to hide and not be a part of the community thats fine but dont show up years later dictating and thinking your the one thats gonna fix issues with your stick and magic wand.
Micro-Suggestion: Try to explain myself better. Not overlook issues that are developed between myself and others. Become more educated as to the nature of the vampire,the history of the groups and houses and covens, etc. Respect others choices and be a better more positive role model.
Praise: What I see as postive are the integrity, the pride and family oriented. Dispite all of the egos and drama we still seem to stick together. The artistic, the old manners and those stubborn head strong opinonated personalities are a plus. The fact that most of us have safety standards and concern ourselves with the state of the world and we look out for the well being of others in and outside our family.
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Response 011
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: Me and my donor were in new orleans a couple of years ago and had a horrible experience with the as you call it vampire community. She was brutally raped by one of the elders who hangs out near the main square. The cops wouldn’t do anything because she knew the guy from a former relationship. I went in front of the other elders and told them what had happened and they did jack shit to help. We actually were told to never show our faces in the quarter again if we knew what was good for us. I lost all faith in the vampire community and their jacked up idea of right and wrong after that.
Macro-Suggestion: When rapists are the elders there is nothing that can be done. None will stand up to them because they are threatened or made to disapear.
Micro-Suggestion: I gave up because I don’t feel safe and never plan to go back to new orleans.
Praise: We’re able to speak and hopefully be listened to for once.
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Response 012
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: I don't have any complaints. I have been so busy with school lately that I havent logged in till I got this email.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 013
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: Most of the communication problems in the community stem from either people assuming the first person they heard was correct and from treating vampirism as a religious belie rather than a scientific phenomena
Macro-Suggestion: It seems to be a personal bias and I cannot fathom how to remedy, but that isn't something I'm good at
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to and always have asked thought provoking questions that may make people consider the science and physics that may be involved and the nature of these conditions. In the future I hope to scientifically document the vampire phenomena which may shift the community's thinking.
Praise: I likr how there is no shortage of discussion and help available and there is a sort of camaraderie amongst it.
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Response 014
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: As I see it, the main problem is a complete lack of real organization and true leadership.
Macro-Suggestion: Sadly, I fear that the overall Community, if it can truly be called that, is fast becoming a joke beyond any real fundamental help.
Micro-Suggestion: I have been active within both the Otherkin and Vampire Communities for many years and have tried to voice my opinions in a respectable manner within both Communities. I have founded a private Clan as a method of offering teaching and guidance to members of both Communities.
Praise: The Community's presence is "out there" and easily accessible to the newly Awakened.
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Response 015
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I do not congregate and therefore have no knowledge base to generate a complaint
Macro-Suggestion: Not Applicable
Micro-Suggestion: Not Applicable
Praise: I think there is a great deal of listening to one another and keeping an open mind to one another's differences.
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Response 016
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: None really, all seems good. I don't seem to get on that often
Macro-Suggestion: None, keep up the great work you guys!
Micro-Suggestion: None
Praise: Everything
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Response 017
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: Elitism, disharmony, total lack of unity, frequent disagreements
Macro-Suggestion: The community needs to realize that we are all vamps, and we should concentrate on working together to promote mutual respect and understanding. We need to cooperate with and learn from one another.
Micro-Suggestion: I will start a local vamp group in my area to promote community, and hopefully, unity.
Praise: There is a large amount of available information online.
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Response 018
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Those who claim they are time travelers, it is an irrational claim.
Macro-Suggestion: The website psivamp.org should make an sticky on any mental condition that may cause someone to believe they can time travel. And also go over of what is fantasy and reality.
Micro-Suggestion: I would just see how the sticky works and hopefully it will help others.
Praise: There are some nice people in the community, and the sites are informative and helpful.
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Response 019
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Jeez all the sarcastic shitheads..who want to fight for no reason at all except for the pleasure of the adrenalin rush. Others who give themselves Royal Titles and expect everyone else to kiss their ass because they are so much more enlightened then anyone else
Macro-Suggestion: Learn mutual respect and be forced to read Emily Post
Micro-Suggestion: Just ignore the jerks and if that doesn't work knock them down hard in a polite intellectual way
Praise: Learning from others...
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Response 020
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: Too elusive....possibly better than thou attitudes.... should be more open with one another
Macro-Suggestion: Be more open in helping one another online and in person...be more open to meet ... share, develop.
Micro-Suggestion: Better presence
Praise: That it is alive and functioning ... just needs to be more personilized
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Response 021
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: nothings wrong
Macro-Suggestion: ?
Micro-Suggestion: ?
Praise: they help each other out
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Response 022
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Deception is number one as it mostly resides on Face Book and there are so many fake profiles online esp on FB. However Egotism as well as Hypocrisy and Bigotry is almost just as bad because not enough people want to take the time to teach new members of the community and most seem to judge everyone for there personal beliefs esp Spirituality and they feel as if they don't belong when all they want to do is help.
Macro-Suggestion: 1. I think we need to get off of the parasite that is Face Book and create our own Real Vampire Social Network similar to what ning used to be before they got greedy and then create groups for each individual house with there own individual rules for each house.
2. As many have there own beliefs on there individual Vampyrism ect. We need to just agree to disagree and take what we will and and disagree if we need and stop with the cult BS unless they are hurting people there is no harm done and see what they are doing that is good and be happy for that.
Micro-Suggestion: Just do what I am doing and not worry about the rest of the community.
Praise: I am glad we now have the internet and out of the shadows or I would have never found the community. As for recent events in this month? I can't think of anything at the moment.
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Response 023
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: No complaint
Macro-Suggestion: It would be nice to have things, like the bikers have biker runs.. Something to bring people together from our community.
Micro-Suggestion: didn't have any complaints but would gladly help plan a block part or like for the community
Praise: I like this site because I have met more people in the world similar to me.
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Response 024
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: People are petty, spiteful and lack respect - not just to those who have come before them, but manners period. We could accomplish much more even if we had our differences if people acted like adults.
Macro-Suggestion: Common courtesy begins at home. If the community is lacking, I doubt the others can force it on them. But ousting the trouble makers from groups or meetings in the real world is a warning sign to others that it will not be tolerated.
Micro-Suggestion: I will be as civil as humanly possible but will be to the point if I encounter it personally. We need set an example, all of us.
Praise:
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Response 025
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Ongoing, strife, back-stabbing, passing judgement, ego and drama. Lack of regard for the feelings and beliefs of others, division, and the list could be endless. Ignoring those who seek to learn and be part of the Community.
Macro-Suggestion: For Houses and groups to state who they are. What they seek in a member. Even to form some sort of Jurisdiction. As the Community is so divided and drama, back-stabbing is so rampant that it woudd not survive. So the change has to come from the Elders, as well as, members and those who identify as vampyre.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: The possibility to meet someone who may have honor and keep his word. Who may seek to truly do what he can to make this Community a community.
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Response 026
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Those who will uphold a lie for the sake of convenience, public opinion, or 'the greater good' as they see it, are a large part of the problem. Adding to this are those who freely lie in order to promote themselves socially.
Macro-Suggestion: Hold everyone to a standard of absolute truth. It simply is not ok to lie.
Micro-Suggestion: I just tell folks the truth, even if they hate to hear it.
Praise: It can be a lifeline for the newly awakened, who are often frightened.
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Response 027
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I believe the biggest issue I have with the vampyric community is that I have dealt with alot of egotistical and narcissistic individuals who believe that this identity makes them better than the community at large or better than the others in the world of our kin (i.e. weres, otherkin, etc.)...I am tired of the fighting.
Macro-Suggestion: I believe the Veil should be rewritten to include a solution to such a problem. I believe more houses should be open to the idea of either accepting Otherkin members or forming alliances with Otherkin houses. We are all children of the night and should thus see ourselves as equals.
Micro-Suggestion: I, myself, am in the beginning stages of forming a local safe house for Vampyre and Otherkin alike. I plan on stressing the fact that we are equal and that no bigotry/narcissism/egotism will be tolerated within the haven.
Praise: I tend to agree more with the feudalistic hierarchy we find in most houses. It tends to give a sense of purpose to members, yet it also gives them a goal to strive toward making the next rank by contributing to the house duties.
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Response 028
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: The dramatics over hyper emotional situations are annoying.
Macro-Suggestion: I do believe that we go through very emotional times, however, I feel that it is fed by over attentiveness to the dramatics. Perhaps separating those moments into a vampyre psychology section on forums or the likes for people who wish to help those going through a psyche issue to deal with it rather than letting it rip open those who are not going through troubled times.
Micro-Suggestion: I seek help from professionals about my issues or talk with someone one on one rather than flaunting it to everyone on the net for the most part.
Praise: I think that the openess that is growing is a positive step in making others aware that we exist. I am hoping that one day that persecution will subside.
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Response 029
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: There are a lot of incompetent people out there.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 030
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: We're forced to accept crazy people talking nonstop shit about how great they are. Why do we have to allow crazy people to represent Vampyres? Not to mention the few who have gotten media attention and think they are just the total fucking shit and their word is law.
Macro-Suggestion: Hell if I know. There's no way to put a crazy-detector over the door.
Micro-Suggestion: Stay the fuck away from them and thier shit talk. I was Vampyre before there was an internet and before any of these stupid groups even existed.
Praise: Some of them are good people. More power to them and fuck the rest.
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Response 031
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Without a doubt the sex cults are the darkest problem we have. I pleeded for help about a year ago and was ignored. When is it ok to take advantage of someone for your own depraved sexual fetishes? I was part of an energy workshop and was asked to remove my clothes, blindfolded, fondled by everyone in the room. They fucked with my energy until I passed out and I woke up naked in my bed at my house! I had huge bruises on my ankles and my back. No answers, no apologies!
Macro-Suggestion: People need to know what can happen in vampire houses. People they look up to aren’t there to help them. Better screening of people!
Micro-Suggestion: I’ve tried to spread the word and been ignored, told I was lying and to shut my mouth......... I don’t know what more to do.
Praise: Frankly........ nothing.
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Response 032
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 033
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: No, you are not truly an immortal vampire who was born a thousand years ago. You may have something ancient within, but don't roleplay here.
Macro-Suggestion: Administrators should be vigilant for roleplaying and direct roleplayers to appropriate places where they can indulge their fancy.
Micro-Suggestion: I intend to maintain a constant look out for roleplayers, while not necessarily doing anything to encourage a fight by telling them to move elsewhere
Praise:
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Response 034
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: I believe that a lot of what is wrong with the community is the lack of respect for opinions/beliefs that differ from our own. I especially believe this is bad because it tends to lead to heated arguments where neither side can see anything good in the other side - no matter how valid a point one side makes, the other side will continue to scream and holler.
Macro-Suggestion: I am honestly not sure what we, as a collective, can do about this problem. Misunderstandings and lack of respect have led to too many bad feelings.
Micro-Suggestion: Individually, I plan to treat everyone with respect - no matter how much I disagree with their beliefs or statements. It's all I can do.
Praise: Petty and childish arguments aside, I believe we have many channels of communication available that are being utilized. I believe that the majority of people are working on being respectful of others.
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Response 035
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: none
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 036
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Not enough participants seem willing to contribute to building the community. Most seem content to just sit back and let other people do it for them - and then to sit back and criticize. A lack of cohesion - people are divided or prefer to stay out of groups or to be solitary without contributing anything but criticism. Also, looking at the global perceived whole of the VC, it is divided into factions and these factions appear to run along either ideological or geo-political boundaries, and there is still much disagreement on what defines a real Vampyre, with some groups holding to religious or cultural definitions alone while discounting metaphysical and biological factors.
Macro-Suggestion: As a collective, I suggest the VC work to strengthen ties with foreign VC's, clarify and propagate accepted definitions of real Vampyres and vampyrism and strengthen ties with groups and VC's which hold to the same values, principles and definitions, while also working to defuse tensions within the community surrounding these disagreements and educating the general VC membership. Also, individuals who perform and who work to better and build their community or the general VC should receive praise and encouragement and support from perceived VC leader figures. I believe more should be done to encourage international involvement.
Micro-Suggestion: In the SA VC I am working to provide as many options as possible in order to create an atmosphere that will encourage participation by people of diverse interests or backgrounds, such as setting up at least one spiritual vampcentric group to draw those who are more spiritual inclined, to match the other groups which are secular etc. Also I am working to educate the general average Vampyre about what they are, and about the culture and history of Vampyres, to promote the vampire lifestyle concept and culture in South Africa to promote interest from those kin who may be in the gothic and bdsm communities as well. I am encouraging individual contributions and participation as well.
Praise: The modern VC is becoming more inclusive and multinational, and is reaching out to other non-English speaking communities. There is a general spirit of unity as Vampyre-kind, along with the unique-ness of being American, South African etc. Much has been done to make it as safe an environment as possible, with safeguards and educational information being made available. The internet and Facebook are powerful tools in keeping the community connected and informed virtually instantly.
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Response 037
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: grandiose grandstanding by individuals and groups, egotistical bickering. over influence by clanns, groups houses over the participation of the individual
Macro-Suggestion: I have no idea, I wish i did
Micro-Suggestion: i plan to only participate where i'm comfortable to do so until the community evolves a little more
Praise: there are people who care, who guide and who think, when u can spot them
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Response 038
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Little vision or sense of what we can do as a community.
Macro-Suggestion: Honestly, I really don't know. Sorry.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 039
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: To be honest, judgement. The judgement that everyone else is wrong and being taught that someone else's point of view on a subject is the one and only truth everyone else needs to follow or you are considered not a real vampire or just not encouraged to know what you know.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: Lots or resources are available.
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Response 040
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: Covens/houses allowing lycans/wolves as coven/house members..... satanism and bdsm incorporated into our Life style
Macro-Suggestion: ban all that gives the Vampi/yre name a bad image from Covens/Houses... get the self proclaimed but dnt know what ''vamps'' out ...
Micro-Suggestion: N/A
Praise: N/A
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Response 041
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: none
Macro-Suggestion: N/A
Micro-Suggestion: N/A
Praise: the vampire community as a whole are an amazing community to be a part of, they dont judge you and accept you for who you are. I am very proud to be a part of it.
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Response 042
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I do not know the Vampyre Community well enough.
Macro-Suggestion: Suggestion: The community should leave the open internet.
Micro-Suggestion: I'm working on an alternative for the OVC.
Praise: I do not know the Vampyre Community well enough. What I've gathered, it reflects the differences and indifferences of any other community.
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Response 043
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Well I dont have these issues in my own group as i keep it in check all the time and is literally drama free. But i notice in many many Real life vampire groups that alot of people are very egotistical and tend to belittle others who maybe dont have the same knowledge as the other and then is spoken to like they are stupid or below the person griefing them. I notice an almost bullyish style way of explaining the facts to the person who just made a mistake on what the person believed to be true and then is made to feel uncomfortable as they now think they are stupid or they have come across a bully or Troll. Alot of the "More knowledgeable" members of these groups fail to see that in some cases everyone has different perceptions on what being a real Vampire is and what is entailed in it for after all everyone is different, but the "Knowledgeable" act like its their way or the highway.. im right ur wrong you stup! id person. Tho not said in so many words.. its almost like they word it carefully so its not quite being nasty that breaks rules but can be seen as nast and bullyish to someone not used to being talked to in such a manner or a young person who hasnt had alot of life experience etc. Also i have noticed that Members are being ejected from groups where the members opinion on something the Admin/group owner also stated an opinion on and both opinions dont match and the debate is slightly heated then poof they booted from the group instead of being helped out and approached with an open mind about the subject matter. After all everyone opinion maybe different from person to person. I also noticed that good people are having rumours spread around some groups that defamates their character and thus causes more problems in the community as a whole. But yet i know that the person/s have done nothing to deserve being treated nasty. Lastly The thing that realllly bugs me is the steril! ized atmosphere in most groups where you can not relax and cha! t to a f ew members about something off topic of the group and is given grief about it like they committed murder or something like that. Are communities meant to bring like minded people together as whole and share domestic interests as well as share their vampy stories and queries. Because mixing a bit of your general interests and Vamp knowlage is good.. as you see the REAL perspective of a person sharing hobby interests or posting a link to their artwork the spent weeks or months to do just to be given grief for ah "It is off topic and not allowed" like ur not allowed to be a normal person with normal interests they wish to share with others in the community for purpose to find like minded people who share same interests or to offer their artwork for sale to people in the group without having all the stress with it. People shuld be free to discuss their interests along with their on topic posts too.
Macro-Suggestion: Be more sensitive to those seeking knowledge and or has been misinformed or has individual circumstances on topics n facts... Be less egotistical to others who only with to be among like minded people without fear of being made to feel inferior or belittled... Be more flexible with off topic stuff as we like to share more than just vamp topics in the vampire environment.Also if they are to be told to cut down off topic posts that it is done without sounding harsh or belittling ... Stop taking rumours about others unless you have solid proof that the person isn't trusted ... Admins/Group owners to stop treating members in a nasty manner when opinions clash... Stop with the Grammer Police rubbish as some members may have spelling issues (Dyslexia, etc)or just have a way of short handing their text. Its not a crime to do this.
Micro-Suggestion: I dont need to remedy these issues in my group as there are no issues. My group is a very relaxed atmosphere and the freedom of being yourself to share personal interests with others is encouraged, not sterilized. We are not grammar police.. members in my group can type out their posts as they see fit within reason. No one belittles or acts egotistical or superior to others if the person didn't know something or got something wrong or is going about the topic in a completely wrong way. We are sensitive and understanding and we make the person learn that they are getting involved in a community with many good respectful people and that we look after one another.
Praise: I like how knowledge of topics is usually backed up with evidence of some form if the other party disbelieves the topic. Most groups are informative about information , events and Current affairs around the world.. It makes us feel more involved and that there is sometimes something for everyone. I also like respectful Admins/Group owners that when there is an issue to be talked about with a member for their behaviour or rule breaking etc that it is taken into private message and not strewn all over the public wall for everyone to see.
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Response 044
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: The VC seems to be mostly excisting on-line especially in South Africa and there is too much role playing involved. Also every Dick, Tom and Harry who calls themselves a vampire on-line is suddenly promoted in a position of power, because they say they head up a vampire house which also only exists on-line and can only be verified to a certain extent. And then they are suddenly experts on all things vampire, even if they have only awakened a couple of months earlier. There is no common sense and leadership qualities.
Macro-Suggestion: Stop thinking about yourself or your position in the vc and try to make a real contribution.
Micro-Suggestion: I have actually left the on-line VC in South Africa, after I was "shunned" when I questioned above-mentioned problems.
Praise: I enjoy the VCN. It is very informative and if possible, the politics are kept to a minimum.
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Response 045
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: a tenancy to make a medical problem into something supernatural, and a taboo against telling people that they don't make sense, even if they really truly don't. No progress can be made if every theory is equally valid. We need tests. We need to put forth testable hypotheses.
Macro-Suggestion: moderators should allow more arguing I guess, or there should at least be a place for scientifically minded people to discuss in the open.
Micro-Suggestion: I want to say I'll just openly attempt to talk about vampirism in a way that makes sense in a material world, but honestly I'm afraid of being shunned/banned from forums. So probably nothing.
Praise: It's hard to praise. There are some good people, and for the most part people are helpful.
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Response 046
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: The men who I have met deliberately induce mental instability in their victims and lie constantly about themselves. One of them actually turned out to be gay, after spending two years leading me on, telling me how much he was in love with me, and having sexual contact through the net. All he was doing was feeding off me, when I realized that he had used me I got my own back, but it had a very bad effect on me. The others I know aren't as bad, but they do identify as sadists and just use people as much as they can. They are interesting people but morally I cannot condone torturing innocents. I practice Chaos Magic and am a Lavayen Satanist, so I won't put up with any crap, but these guys are essentially predators with no morals or ethics and they are too stupid to realize that there is always someone bigger and stronger waiting to kick their ass. Every single one I know lost his job, they were all very official, well educated. None of them has benefited from harming others constantly. They set up traps and false personae, using magic and manipulation to con people into allowing them to feed. Others are drug pushers, addicts, and heavily into S&M. I am not talking the consenting stuff, either. I am talking going to foreign countries solely for the purposes of torturing and killing trafficked women and children.
I am a vampire...I always have been. Both my parents are. All three of my kids are. I know it can be controlled, I am proof. I know what I am capable of, and it isn't pretty. It's my choice to be a monster or not. I can help or hurt. Power attracts the very people who shouldn't have it.
Macro-Suggestion: You cannot control people, but you can lead by example, and weed out the idiots before they manage to get very far.
Micro-Suggestion: I've already done what I had to do.
Praise: It's nice being on contact with others like myself. It's good to be able to find solutions to problems collectively.
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Response 047
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Biggest issue - are those claim to be and are simply not. Those who aggressiveness debate every topic, as in they are right about everything and create discord with there mouth. Those who have no manners nor educate in social discussions. There closed off to other's thought on a subject material allowing them to be closed off from growth (mentally, physically and spiritually.
Macro-Suggestion: Monitors should warn those who are being aggressive in nature to others in social discussions. Encourage them to be open minded, used more tactfulness, and when all else fails remove them.
Micro-Suggestion: Either I will not respond to such behaviors, or if I do do so gracefully without abusive and degrading language. Other wise my hands are tied (so to speak)
Praise: So much is good - the wealth of information and those who gracefully communicate and teach. So much could be learned, experienced with proper manners and educate even in a heated discussion with out all those who create discord. This creates closer bonds. For me like myself who do not belong to a house this is the close I have to a family. The bonds made with in the OVC I feel are invaluable. - Thank you
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Response 048
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Not enough, or not solid enough information. I think a lot of the bigotry, egotism(& narcissism) can be avoided if we had some advancements in what is real and what isn't.. or at least with what seems realistic and what is complete and utter BS. Then again, this could still contribute to complaints of bigotry and shutting out certain individuals.
Macro-Suggestion: I think as a whole, weeding out at least those who don't play well with others is a start. I think coming to some basic conclusions or most possible/likely conclusions as to the what's how's why's, etc of Vampirism, then we might gradually begin to see a "cleaner" community.
Micro-Suggestion: I've started my forum in hopes of being a place for all to share their views. - I figure if it's all in one place, we can more easily compare and contrast the different beliefs around vampirism and determine what are common conclusions (and where we're starting) and what aren't.
I'm always trying to be fair (though I guess I contribute to indifference), but firm and realistic, and I'm always trying to share what information I have available with others in hopes to help opposing sides see each other as learning tools, instead of as enemies.
Praise: I think it's some individual groups of the community that make it work. ..or at least I like them the best..
NOVA, is definitely an organization I would love to meet and I guess I try to strive for what they've accomplished and continue to do.
The VVC, I don't here much about them as a group, but interactions with their members have definitely been beneficial (at the least) for me. Most of them seem level-headed, realistic and fair. Some may be a little tough to take for others, but I like them just fine.
Merticus, you seem to do a lot for the community and a lot of people seem to like you, maybe even look up to you. I don't want to put any pressure on you, and I think it sounds a bit sad (pathetic?) but I think you are often, and almost completely part of what keeps the community together and "playing nice".. You and what the AVA have done for the community is certainly appreciated and an accomplishment to be proud of.. - Where ever you decide to go, I think the majority of the community will follow you (they may complain along the way, but they'll follow)..
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Response 049
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I think security is lacking. And there is no vampire house in the uk.
Macro-Suggestion: All new members should be scanned to verify vampiric energy signatures via an appointed and respected long range mediator/psychic vampire/remote senser or a psion who has had lots of contact with vampires.
Micro-Suggestion: Im going to form a new house in the uk im currently building the said website will let you know prior to launch
Praise: You bought us all together and shown us that we are not alone. Without you we would all be constantly seeking mental health care. Drifting through life in deep need waiting to expire. Because of you we can work together to harness our most inner selves and learn control.
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Response 050
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I think it was a toss up between egotism and narcissism. I believe that there are those in the community that think themselves high above others and unless one fits into their special little box, they and their ideas are discarded. Not everyone has a chance to be seen by the media, not every one can write articles, not everyone can afford to build yet another website on the topic. It should not and does not make them less in the community.
Macro-Suggestion: I think the VVC should be revamped. Pun intended. Discard those who do not attend VVC meetings or no longer work for the community. get in some fresh faces that could bring new ideas to the table or at least offer different insight into the topics that get rehashed at every meeting. Also meeting more often might get more accomplished
Micro-Suggestion: Don't know what I can say here. I have no control over the VVC and the moves they take. I will continue to keep educating people the best way that i have the abilities.
Praise: I think it is good that the VC as a whole is trying to do what they can to make the non vampire community more accepting of who we are.
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Response 051
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: While not a universal problem obviously, there runs in the vampire community a strong inclination toward narcissism and selfishness. People create drama for the sake of drama, and there is particularly a strong tendency in those who feel (accurately or not) that they have any power, influence of authority to believe they are better than those around them and abandon those who supported them.
Macro-Suggestion: Start with the obvious fact that without the members of the community, there's no community. It's not all about you, so get off your damn high horse and play nice with the other children. Know where you stand in comparison to others, and I don't care how many articles you wrote, how many books you published, or how many facebook friends you have, you're not better than everyone else.
Micro-Suggestion: I avoid the drama and refused to communicate with, care about or otherwise pay attention to those who cause it. I can't fix them, and trying just gives them the attention they crave and validates the method of getting it. Ignoring them at least works for me.
Praise: I am quite pleased with the freedom and availability of information about vampirism and the community. The vampire community lacks the element of so many large communities in defining itself in multiple conflicting ways and creating partisan organizations. All the beliefs within the community mesh without the need to exclude anyone.
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Response 052
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: i believe people who have a position of high respect and trust should be wise and not abuse their authority and instead should be open to new ideas and truthfully have a calling to help others and not instill fear and strict ideals like the christian religions do. I have distanced myself from the vampire community since i left psychicvampire.org after a very big misunderstanding with choice of words when my friend was trying to suggest an idea. It has been years since i looked into those forums so i can not say if that is still going on. this new forum by merticus is a whole lot better and more useful than psychicvampire.org ever was or will be
Macro-Suggestion: this group, website, people in a position of higher trust, etc, should first take a self check and realize that the world is changing and their ideas of what vampirism has been to this point are changing as well, and what was once considered appropriate for relieving energy/blood requirements is changing as well, and things like acupuncture and energy modalities like shamballa and reiki can also help alleviate those cravings and in some cases even sustain the individual in the sense that some vampires are vampires because their energy is so imbalanced that feeding has become the way to correct it, and energy imbalances like that can be helped drastically to an extent over 90% of energy intake needs
Micro-Suggestion: I am a reiki master teacher, massage therapist in training, and soon to be acupuncturist in training, and I can say frist hand that after becoming attuned to reiki it has met up to 90% of my energy intake needs, and I am helping many people with their energy imbalances. As a massage therapist I take out that which is no longer needed at a person's discretion, and replace it with new, vibrant, transformational reiki energy which helps people remove blockages that hinder them in their life, and it puts them on a new cycle in their life that improves them as an individual and a productive member of society.
Praise: I believe the vampire community is a wonderful place for newly awakened, and already aware individuals to come to a place where they are understood and supported for who they are. Without the vampire community i would have never been able to understand myself fully and I probably would have been very confused for a long time before I figured things out on my own. With an every changing world, I just wish that vampirism and all types of energy modalities may be integrated and combined into healing modalities that benefit all of society. I honestly think psychic vampires are the ultimate hears. they take that which is no longer needed and can transform it into something productive. As a psychic vampire and a reiki master teacher I feel complete now, and I have become a very powerful healer. I am thankful for the vampire community for being there for me when i was a noob and confused did not know anything and thought i was the only one. =].
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Response 053
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Just the fact that (whether someone really is or isnt a vampyre) members lie about thier abilities, or they claim outrageous things like "baal was my grandfather" or something. it gets so old when i'm trying to learn and teach. i mean really!!! it just...grrr!!!! just dont waste peoples time like that! you wanna roleplay?! find an RP forum dammit!!! dont go telling all sorts of wild stories like "Count Stoner" does!
Macro-Suggestion: people who want attention should first find people who actually are willing to deal with them, then proceed to leave us alone. if that doesnt work try not being an attention seeker and grow up, or even try to actually LEARN something valuable!
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to let these people know my opinion and politely suggest they follow one of the unspoken rules of vampyrism "be honest and do not exxadurate your abilities" to hopefully inspire them into develop themselves into what they wish they were, rather than lazing about and wishing. progress requires action and practice.
Praise: i think that it is a very good place to vent out frustrations and meet those like ourselves. Learing and teaching. I do wish that the apprentices forum was more active.
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Response 054
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I think the biggest problem that goes unnoticed in the vampire community is the kink tantric vampire ‘elders’. I’ve stopped counting the number of horror stories I’ve heard from friends telling me about these elders preying on young girls and donors looking to be hooked up with vampires. Fetlife is the worst place for this but a close friend of mine was stalked on Facebook about a month ago and blackmailed over nude photos another vampire had given out of her. I took down my scene photos on Fetlife because someone I thought was my friend threatened to email them to my in-laws unless I slept with her. We’re no longer together but my girlfriend was drugged, branded, raped, and filmed for a sex ritual in the French Quarter several years ago. She complained to the head honcho vampires there and was told if she ever wanted to be allowed through the door of another! club or party she’d keep quiet. If you’re a female you should just assume you’re being hunted by vampires for sex! It’s so degrading!
Macro-Suggestion: A group needs to be assembled to combat underage sex, rape, violence, and stalkers. Young people shouldn’t be made to feel afraid to report people who contact them for sex just because these are powerful vampires.
Micro-Suggestion: I think I may start this group if no one else is up to the task. I think others are just to afraid to come forward and let others know they aren’t alone.
Praise: The post about the sexual pervert who was arrested and warning to the community was an excellent example of what we should be doing! Chatting is much better than it used to be now that we have Facebook.
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Response 055
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Not everyone who associates with the Vampire Community lies, but there are enough who do that truly give it a bad name. We've all run into the one who claims to be however many centuries old, or otherwise immortal. This harms the community, as the ones who are willing to lie about what they are, are usually the ones easiest to find when doing any research into the Vampire Community. You would think that with time, people would begin to realize the fallacy of these claims, but unfortunately the Vampire Community is still in shadows as it pertains to the majority of people who don't belong to the community.
Macro-Suggestion: Honestly, I think that the community is stuck with its hands tied behind its back. The only real solution is absolute transparency, but how dangerous could that be for most? In a world that is still for the most part unaccepting of anything that is not the status quo, absolute transparency might as well be a death sentence for social and professional lives of those involved with the Vampire Community. I feel there have been quite a few attempts to get real, sound information out there as it pertains to Vampires. However, the "immortals" are louder, and will always get the first bits of attention. We can only hope that there is enough of an interest, that others who look into our community will continue to look deeper, past our frauds.
Micro-Suggestion: I will continue to pass off valid information pertaining to our community when the opportunity presents itself.
Praise: The Vampire Community is welcoming. There is no judgment that I have personally found within it. No matter what doubts I may have at the moment about myself, about the community, about life, there is no judgment. Only understanding.
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Response 056
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: before the internet vamps met in person and common manners dictated proper behavior. No we have wimps sitting at a computer who feel tough and want to act and behave in a rude.crude way. In person these same fucks wouldn't say Boo. With the computer screen to hide behind and a pack of phoney names to further conceal themselves behind..they are fearless and casue shit for their own entertainment. In person I stand 6'3" and weigh 210 pounds, so in a face to face encounter these tough people are at a disadvantage. strange i find other Vamps most polite in person?
Macro-Suggestion: Hvae standards of conduct and warn those brave pukes to be tough somewhere else.
Micro-Suggestion: Stop interacting on the web..and only post at the bare minimum.
Praise: Meeting a scarce few who are here to learn from each other.
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Response 057
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: nothing to complain about.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: think everyone's on same page.
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Response 058
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Status being used against someone who has a differing opinion.
Macro-Suggestion: As much as we wish the public to be more tolerant of us, we seem to have a problem with being tolerant with each other.
Micro-Suggestion: My efforts to remedy this have failed.
Praise: It is great that we have this method of communication with each other. had the OVC not existed, I would have had many more problems with self-acceptance.
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Response 059
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: There are way too many misinformed people among our groups who not only don't have the facts, but don't WANT the facts. They're too busy wanting to believe they're a special snowflake.
Macro-Suggestion: They should keep an open mind, but a skeptic's heart. Something might be possible, but that doesnt make it feesable, and just because we happen to be vampires doesnt mean we need to believe everything that comes our way.
Micro-Suggestion: I will do my best to be kind and informative, and keep the community a place of learning instead of reproach
Praise: I think there are a lot of really nice people who do their best to make others feel accepted in our community, and that's a really good thing.
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Response 060
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Some people are way too much in their own fantasies. They are so proud because they are (or they feel they are) vampires, they brag about this and write hard-to-believe stories on internet.
(PS. I am NOT from US! telling about my country)
Macro-Suggestion: I think that it's needed to demythologize psychic vampirism (in my country). Too many people in here treat vampirism just as a way to pump their ego i freudian way. There's not enough materials in my language about psi-vampirism, so I think we should write something more on vampirism subject, and put this on the website.
Micro-Suggestion: I thought about writing such a text on vampirism - but I don't know where to start. I don't want to write some simple "Vampirism 101: tutorial for feeding", I would like write some *deeper* analysis of vampiric community, psychology, and many ways to feed.
And it's a little bit problem - I don't know if I am experienced enough to write such thing.
Praise: Uhm, community in my country is small (*one* serious forum!), but cool. We have sense of humour and we can stay a little bit ironic about whole vampiric stuff (I regret that such a sense of humour and self-irony is very rare on american forums...). Also we are pretty freethinkers.
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Response 061
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I don't think I have any complaints except for Role Players. Other than that the community is fine.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 062
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Petty arguments, mostly. Usually started by people who think they are the everything and holder of all the knowledge (the grandiosity part). I think it is a actually a smaller population of these people, but the small subset starts the large part of drama.
Macro-Suggestion: Unfortunately, I do not think we can change these people. They have to mature on their own, or not, it cannot be forced. It is almost impossible to convince a person they don't know everything when they think they do. They have to learn from thier mistakes. However, it does not mean they have to be fed the drama. Let them have their statements, perhaps make a counterargument, and then leave it alone. Which is the most difficult part!
Micro-Suggestion: I am a Ghandi-type person. I try to be the change I wish to see in the world. As such, I try to not add to drama and I only claim absolute knowledge of those things I can back up with other facts. I try to lead by example, in short. As all, though, I know i slip from that from time to time, but try to stay on the path the majority.
Praise: Research! Be it psi or sang, we are looking toward research and data that can be hard numbers. we are taking anectodotal evidence and making it more hard evidence. In this, we are combating those know-it-all types with facts.
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Response 063
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: People need to accept the fact that there are other who walk separate paths and that for the greater good it would be best to just not argue instead of attacking those who state their opinion.
Macro-Suggestion: the people attacking other should just drop the topic and stop feeding their ego or find better wording to state their disagreement with the opposing party.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan on continuing to be an observer and not to post much until I feel that I won't be persecuted for my opinions or that the words I have to share are needed more then the not wanting to be attacked I would receive for saying such.
Praise: other then the attacking each other it seems that the community as a whole is working towards something good.
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Response 064
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: There is no unity of vision. Most of us can't even figure out what we want for our immediate area, let alone for the community as a whole. We can't even agree on what to call ourselves. Until we understand that there is moer that unifies us than divides us, organizing any kind of cohesive community will be like herding drunken ferrets with a spatula.
Macro-Suggestion: Perhaps focusing on a unified global community is too large a project at this point. Focusing closer to home is likely a better plan.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to spend more time with the local offline community.
Praise: The amount of communication that's been going on is a great start. If we could spend less time slagging each other and beating old arguments to death, we might get somewhere.
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Response 065
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: I dont feel like anyone wants me around. I used to post on Drink Deeply Dream, VCMB, PsychicVampCom, AvA, Darkness Embraced, Smokey Mirrors, Vampire Church and irc chat until the moderators made me feel like I was an idiot and my opinions werent important. The worst are Lestat from Drink Deeply Dream and Lady Slinky from VCMB and they even banned me from their forum. It isnt fair to be looking for help and be stabbed in the back like that.
Macro-Suggestion: A class in how to be nice to people who want answers.
Micro-Suggestion: Why should it be me changing things? Im the one who needs the help!
Praise: I prefer FaceBook because I can share ideas without being censored or laughed at.
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Response 066
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Lack of purpose and dedication, lack of honesty with themselves and others, emo behavior and disbelief in aesthetic maturity with grace, unemployment, and consistant untreated mental illness/ depression.
Macro-Suggestion: Make a support system to assist American vampiric people with mainstreaming to the cultural norms thus improving vampire employment rates, education, and individual self awareness. I find many community members are indifferent about their lack of education, self-care, hygiene, safety, representation to the mundane community.
Micro-Suggestion: I am open to informing/ assisting any person I encounter how to better themselves. My house has offered help to those willing to accept it. It is.difficult to help others when they are unaware of their faults and setbacks. I feel personal life choices and insecurity play a large role in personal life choices which lead to problems faced by vampiric people. I am open to participation in any functional endeavor which would work toward helping this issue.
Praise: New houses are being formed, forums are informative and honest, and the vvc is doing Q&A for those who dont have personal access to community near where they live.
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Response 067
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I sometimes feel that people are like sheep one follows the other,or maybe they had a bad childhood and want to just be angry at the world and that a real vampire does not
Macro-Suggestion: There will always be the wanna bes
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: It's time we came out of the closet and live how we should and show the human race we are real
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Response 068
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: I don't know you guys (psyvamp.org) that well so I have few complaints. Indigos and starseed are only so much better organized. If anything, I compliment how much better organized you guys are!
Macro-Suggestion: I need concrete counseling on several topics because my family is full of psy vamps.
Micro-Suggestion: I hope to use your model when organizing starseed who are very organized online but not so organized in the real world.
Praise: You heard it already! You're organized (psyvamp.org). I mean I was attacked by a vamp in college way back. Maybe you guys have specific teachers out there who can help me heal the damage? Not that I've already made progress on that. I've met a few teachers via Facebook who are very skilled. They may have a vampire background but that doesn't leave me suspicious. I understand you psy vamps. I want to become a therapist someday for blood letters who have psychological problems. I'm a B.A. in creative writing for now.
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Response 069
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: there is no unity. and everyone is positive they are the only source of what a vampire really is.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 070
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: Well, for one, I don't know how to become equally involved with the vampire community, So I don't know what some of the "bad" things are. I think more communication between vampire leader people and regular vampire people? I don't know how to stop myself from unconsciously taking energy, so maybe free online lessons? Communication is very important in a community and I'm not sure what is right or what is wrong in the vampire community.
Macro-Suggestion: I don't know. You guys need to figure your problems out calmly and diplomatically, maybe call big meeting somewhere to discuss your problems and set the rules staight
Micro-Suggestion: I'll think of something to do for the community.
Praise: I don't know what is good or functional, nor do I know what is wrong or disfunctional about the community, so for whatever right your doing, keep it up.
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Response 071
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: It is very good that the community helps us understand what is happening when we start to 'Awaken'.
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Response 072
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Dear Goddess the egos the thing that I think that keeps me from posting on conversations these days is the fact that people overreact to EVERYTHING that is said and we cant seem to have a rational conversation as a community without someones Ego getting two stepped on. This is maddening and it's not just my own ego suffering here we need to keep in mind that many of us by involvement and by age alone should be role models for those who are trying to find their way. The young that are coming to look for us either for the wrong or the right reasons and what do they find? A group of dysfunctional people for the most part that can't keep their heads clear and their tongues civil to save themselves. We are all going to have different perspectives on how things should work or what theory is the new "hotness" so to speak but who seriously when did we become judge and jury of others? The first time I walked into this community in 1997 on dal.net I was treated SO poorly that I went back to the Pagan community where I never felt like I truly fit in but they offered me at least some comfort and solace. When I returned in 2005 under a different but still the same person I found more welcoming people like Lady CG, Hawkmoor, Hellkat who were arms open and willing to help. While we didnt agree all the time and we debated topics like crazy it was still a supportive atmosphere which is why I severed as an Admin on Smoke and Mirrors until the doors closed earlier this year and it became an archive because it was the vision I have always had for the community. We cant spend forever arguing over who is right or who is wrong it is wasted energy for everyone. There are always going to be rp'ers fine we have dealt with that for years we educate them, keep them from thinking hollywood knows what they are talking about and we pat them on the head as we always have and ship them on their way. That's one more person that knows enough not to slit someones throat or attempt to "turn" someone because twilight said this is how it's done. We have failed as a community at this education and not just for the rp'ers but for ALL of us. We should all be learning, obviously we all have a desire to learn and we honestly should never be seen in the public eye bickering with each other of silly nonsense if we ever want to progress beyond being considered a "Fetish" community in the minds of people that aren't like us.
Macro-Suggestion: The VC as a whole should first limit the drama. This will be the hardest thing to accomplish because so many of us are overdramtic. I hate to say this but on the Facebook Community page when people get out of hand temporary ban them til they cool their heeels. This would require a larger group of moderators scanning the group for potential outbursts and quelling arguments but if we are going to be an Open/Public group we need to establish an image to the public that we want to be seen and one we are proud of. Secondly we need to go back to the initiative of educating people about the Human Vampire not belittling their choices. Some I often see on the Facebook group as well. This type of behavior is doing nothing for us except causing further gaps and strife between people. We are never going to get all get along there are too many variances in the human psychology to allow absolute peace and this is exuberant by other aspects of our make up. If this type of limited control doesnt work then we need to start banning people I know we can never shut them up fully but if we publicly ban them and denounce them as part of the community we can provide a bit of damage control. That way it minimizes the fall out some and those who are followers will follow that person where ever they go anyways til they learn their lesson.
Micro-Suggestion: Personally I plan to do what I've always done stay out of the drama, not participate in conversations that have become a flagrant display of ego. This is an initiative that I followed as an Admin and that I follow in life. There is no such thing as good drama and it should be quelled as soon as it starts and damage control should ensure.
Praise: I praise the VC for being able to survive us and all of our opinions. The drama, the arguments, the finger pointing, the ridiculing. Even in the worst moments you always knew the people in the community once they calmed down would come back with a new/fresh opinion at least most of them. I think the VC offers us a place to be ourselves where we don't have to pretend to be anyone else like many of us do in our daily lives with friends, coworkers and even family.
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Response 073
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: Drama, and infighting
Macro-Suggestion: change self attitudes, be more positive.
Micro-Suggestion: I don't gossip, not get caught up in the community infighting. I plan to keep doing this. I just think some of the mean spirited rhetoric should stop.
Praise: Everybody is so brilliant!! Our community is one of the most educated,(self, or otherwise) communities in the land!! Wow.
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Response 074
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: What is wrong is the fact that people have sayed alot of things that are wrong about the community and it needs to come out to the real world and people need to learn the truth.
Macro-Suggestion: We should first have more books and intervews and websites that go somewhat of to what we truly are and that we are not what they show on movies or tv.
Micro-Suggestion: I am actually opening my area up to the truth by giving them nolige of the truth.
Praise:
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Response 075
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 076
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Is there a problem in the Vampire Community yes I believe it does. Is it possible to attribute it to a category no I do not believe so. The problem with this to me is that every single country has its own community of sorts with all a different mix of issues going on. So its very hard for me to isolate the most dysfuncional element. I have seen all the above attributes happening but I view them as individual cases. Altough the results will be lower that way than trying to improve the community overall the effects will last a lot longer.
Macro-Suggestion: The only thing a person can ever do I believe is look to themselves think about who they are, think about how they reflect there thoughts, ideas on the community and motivate encourage people in the community to show there potentials while keeping a watchfull eye on the few rotten apples that try to taint the experience.
Micro-Suggestion: Same as Macro-Suggestion
Praise: Praise to everyone who are helping others in the community or outside of the community. Praise to the people who try to explain what vampirism is to others and promote a healthy view on any subject. And praise to those who have the courage to act when they see mishap going on instead of turning a blind eye.
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Response 077
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Judging others very very harshly
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 078
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Blood drinking is a huge problem in the community. I personally believe it is a very under-developed way to feed and we should do better to teach the community about the safety issues and better ways to feed. There is no such thing as a "psi" or "sang" vampire, it's all energy, just in different forms!
Macro-Suggestion: Teach the community the importance of understanding the subtle realities and to more effectively communicate with the energy around them. They are too grounded to the physical world.
Micro-Suggestion: The best I can do is show them references and books written by Michelle Belanger; she has a great understanding of energy and the world around it. Vampires need to be encouraged to write a journal of their practices, energy work, dreams and success.
Praise: We are doing a great job in keeping our community visible, but out of touch. It is just the right amount that allows us to reach out to our kin who have not found themsleves yet, but also hidden enough that the whole world is still ignorant of us.
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Response 079
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I simply find it interesting that our community is constantly criticizing one another and judging one another when we receive enough of it from the outside world. Whether someone identifies themselves as a sanguine, psy or spiritual vampire it should not make any difference because we should all be working together to make our community the strongest and most beautiful it can be.
Macro-Suggestion: I suppose it comes down to more of an open discussion amongst the members and the elders of this world of ours. The elders must set an example for all of those who come after that we must embrace all who choose to walk this path and not fan the flames of vicious bigotry.
Micro-Suggestion: I have always embraced all of those whom I encounter who identify with the vampire world. I personally speak out when interviewed and related how beautiful our world is and how unique all of our brothers and sisters are. It saddens me that there is some of the same tendencies amongst our own world that we find in mainstream religion. The "I'm right and you're wrong." mentality. It is archaic and disheartening.
Praise: Those that I personally call my family are the most beautiful souls I know and they are all actively working to continue the fostering of our true power as members of the vampire community. What I have spoken of above is, I hope, a small segment of our population, but one that has far-reaching impact. The vast majority though are working in opposition to the negativity and bigotry. In my own family I praise the elders whom have set a beautiful example to all of us.
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Response 080
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 081
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: We, the vampire community, need to go MAINSTREAM and tell humans that we are real and educate them to the truths about us and seperate the real from the folklore. We need a national registration of some kind for us, some kind of government for us, to government over us, and an amendment to protect our rights. We need to come and announce our existance. I am sick and tired of being in the closet and when I do try to tell humans about who I am, I just get laughed at or get disbelief because of the Hollywood myths or the folklore that have been handed down through history. We need mainstreaming and education! Awareness.
Macro-Suggestion: What I stated above, but we also need to get together in every area and support each other.
Micro-Suggestion: I don't know what else to do at this point because there isn't any vampires in my area that I know of at this point to help me do what I think that needs to be done.
Praise: There is no praises to be given at this point, in my opinion.
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Response 082
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Some think that they are something special, and do everything they can to inflate their own ego. All the Clubs and "Houses" are only there to make those who are apart of them feel important. Plus I am sick of going on forums and having the same questions asked everyday.
Macro-Suggestion: Unless you can force people to grow brains and take others down a couple of pegs there's not much than can be done.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to stay off the forums, and generally stay out of the Vampire community, and just live my life.
Praise: It's a lot more accessible to everyone.
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Response 083
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Going public has been overdone! While I am not totally against some publicity, it seems to have gotten way out of hand. Mundanes who have no idea what they are speaking about are claiming to be Vampyre and then committing atrocities and making us look like total fools.
Macro-Suggestion: Be more careful about who we allow into our Community and stop being so public about our nightside lives.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan on trying harder to educate those who have potential into the Community and our ways.
Praise: I see Family everywhere who are trying to do what they can to pull together and overcome the issues that we as a Community must deal with.
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Response 084
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: No clear leaders, and no cohesivness, this hands down is the biggest problem. There are too many people who are so concerned about having their own needs met that they care nothing for the health of the community. Something needs to change.
Macro-Suggestion: There needs to be a unified system,or government if you will. This can be discussed and voted. And those who dont wish to be part of the community dont have to be. If we want to work for a goal we have to do it together. United we stand, divided we fall.
Micro-Suggestion: Ive mentioned it before, and im not one to be a leader as i myself am not a vampire, however i will strongly back and aid and put forth names of who i think would be good leaders.
Praise: I like that its a place where you can find answers and commune with people like yourself.
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Response 085
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: The community as a whole seems very fractured with very little allegiance and cooperation among members. There seems to be a general lack of cohesion and organization. A uniform code of ethics and conduct for vampires in general would ameliorate many of the aforementioned issues. I know we have the Black Veil which has merit, but there is no system to enforce its principles. An enforcement organization is badly needed to foster unity and cooperation among members of the vampire community.
Macro-Suggestion: Adopt a standardized code of ethics and rules of conduct for vampires which is vigorously enforced. If enforcement fails, try banishment as punishment for violating the rules of the community.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to live by the Black Veil as strictly as possible in an effort to set a good example for other vampires. The VVC is definitely a step in the right direction, but an enforcement branch of community standards is badly needed.
Praise: I do like the freedom and friendliness that predominates throughout the vampire community currently. I also cherish the principle of self-determination regarding vampirism that seems rather standard among different groups of the community. I also like the anonymity that one is allowed in the OVC as I live in a less than tolerant region.
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Response 086
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 087
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 088
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: ganging up on a person who makes an unpopular Post. Just like a pack of animals..and no one has the stones to stick up for the victim. Cowards abound. Also if someone dislikes you then they get their friends to gang up on you.
Macro-Suggestion: Get some manners, get some mutual respect, grow up children, get some shit kicked out of you to learn about consequences
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: the infinitesimal amout of learning & sharing that takes place...every Blue Moon
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Response 089
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: brat pack bitch clubs bearing false witness and crying wolf constantly.
Macro-Suggestion: ban the rabble rousers and poisoners
Micro-Suggestion: disengage
Praise: networking
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Response 090
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: People who look down on those who really don't know much about it but identify with vampires. Im not talking about the whole twilight thing, im talking about people who really are(again not twilight) vampires. When I first went to an online form for vampires I was treated horribley. I haven't been back since.
Macro-Suggestion: People need to get over themselfs. Not much else you can do.
Micro-Suggestion: I have been looking in my area for others like me. Then I thought of making a group that welcomes not just vampires but those who are curious as well. Educate people.
Praise: I can't say as I haven't been involved in some time.
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Response 091
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I checked "none of the above", not becasue the othe choices did not fit, but more because they all rather did, depending on the persona involved. Mostly, I am turned off by the lack of a sense of Community...where I live there is no place for us to go. EVERYTHING is in Seattle or Portland. AND it is ALL clubs and bars. While I can understand that there is alot of energy to be found at such places, it is NOT the only place. And I AM concerned that that is the only representation that other communities and Society sees of us. As vampires, we are so very much more. I also think that this leads to many either making choices that are not the best, and/or they stay away, from their "Cousins", and endured loneliness. I, myself, find myself, sometimes, whispering, "Find me..." or longing to go and meet another...but I do not like the bar or club scene. In addition, it hurts when the stereotypes are promoted by even our! own.
Macro-Suggestion: I would like to see more ways to come together...different ways. Perhaps, some means of lettign others know of an event or place that has a showing that might be of interest. Also, a listing of things to see and do, that does not cost alot. These are tight financial times for just about everyone, and that would be thoughtful...us bearing in mind that some of our Cousins, may not have the resources that we do.
Micro-Suggestion: I am working on this as well. and I am trying to bring as much of this sort of thing into my routine as possible. I do really advertise that I am a vampire, but I do not hide it, either, I love it when I get those opportunities to teach my neighbours about our Community and culture. I have made a facebook page for anyone to contact with questions. since my own resources are rather limited, my own efforts to make advancement on this are slow..slower than I wish...at least It is there. though!
Praise: I love it when I hear about vampires who help, who teach, who show by their very example, that we are a real and vital community...while at the same time showing that we are simply another family. I would love to see more of that, and better still to hear more about it from various sources. This brings up the stereotypical vampire again.
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Response 092
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: The olde guard is dead to us. We must rekindle the olde ways and stop letting others expose us to the outside world. Why are we so worried about being politically correct when we were raised to never show disrespect to our elders. Their authority kept us together and the parasites and blood drinkers away from our children. I once thought the black veil meant something and that gotham was a home for all of us. It’s now just bullshit and overrun by backstabbing liars. We have lost our way and become weak!
Macro-Suggestion: New elders need to be appointed to bring the families back together.
Micro-Suggestion: I wish I had all the answers.
Praise: Fuck that noise because our clubs have become dumping grounds for lost youth junkies.
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Response 093
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I think the community is elitist and cliquish. The in-fighting is ridiculous. The number of "high muckitymucks" who want to throw role-playing terms around to slander other members of the community because of personal conflict is astounding and in the almost 10yrs ive been in the community NONE of it has gotten the slighest bit better. The community isnt growing and maturing, its degrading and the so-called Elders arnt doing a damn thing to pull it back in line.
Macro-Suggestion: I think the pot-stirring crap shouldnt be tolerated. People need to grow some balls and stand up for each other when one faction is playing idiotic Masquerade style games against a person or group of people. And if everyone knows a house or coven etc consistantly acts like grandiose idiots then stop inviting them places, engaging with them, endorsing or supporting them. Bloody hell raise your standards already, set an example and EXPECT people your own people and friends to follow it.
Micro-Suggestion: I already do everything I stated. I have publically left groups I was associated with when I felt their practices were ridiculous, mean spirited, hurtful, etc. I have stopped speaking to pot-stirrers, cutting them out of my world so as not to let others think I condone their behaviour. I have set standards for my own people that I expect them to adhere to and there are sanctions for those who dont tow my line
Praise: I think that when there were more public events happening, where more vamps of different diverse houses, covens, and solitarys were gathered for like-minded activities... the sharing of ideas, and fun - we had far less of this nonsense because we IRL knew each other. That was and still is where it exists the best and most functional part of the community - besides the VVC of course
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Response 094
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: People taking advantage of others and lying about the truth of the real vampyre. Wannabe's ruining our reputation as well.
Macro-Suggestion: First, learn science. Learn the truth about the real vampyre and implement it into teaching others and humans the truth. Stop taking advantage and also alert the world on how to tell when you are being taken advantage of. Weed out wannabe's by using our scientific knowledge comparing real to the insane or rpgers.
Micro-Suggestion: I have already for 12yrs taught classes regarding the the real vamp, and about how not to be taken advantage of. I even have a online site regarding the truth. I even teach reg. People. I call out and prove that a particular person or group is nutts or at least not real nor belong to our world.
Praise: I have not seen much on anything positive as a whole our community has done or will do except for donor rules/laws. Most what i heard and seen or experienced has been negative or hurts our world. Decieving others to fit their own world or needs. Think the humans have done more good for our community than ourselves. Ie. New rights, US gov. Admitting psi vamps are genuine and real etc.
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Response 095
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I think it is wrong when vampires think it's okay to chase me and mine. other kindred should just come up to me and say hello. I'm not going to bite them.
Macro-Suggestion: I think we should learn to be nicer to each other.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to be more out going, and I plan to talk to more of our kind, and hope that they will do the same.We need to be more of a community then a collection of vampires in an area.
Praise: The style, and the night life.
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Response 096
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: People who think that they are the be all end all of information to the point of making anything new seem ridiculous and impossible regardless of truth.
Macro-Suggestion: There really isn't anything. In general all vamps are narcissists. Just be nice if most were more open minded. I know it's hard to accept your own condition, but it shouldn't keep you unwilling to accept anything else.
Micro-Suggestion: Never share any different/new information so that everyone can remain safe in their personal bubbles away from any chance of there ever being progress.
Praise: It allows you to either:
A. Get in touch with others in the community. (swans, kindred, etc)
OR
B. It confirms your first instinct, which is that most of the others out there are not worth socializing with.
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Response 097
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Too many self appointed "experts" with no education, training or knowledge of what they are telling new people. People with actual training to teach classes, etc would be great.
Macro-Suggestion: I do not believe that the so called "community" should attempt to police one another. When one group gets to say how or why to do something and who should be advocated for, then you get exclusion and judgement rather than inclusion and support.
Micro-Suggestion: I have offered myself up to teach classes and workshops and I am trained in several pertinant subjects.
Praise: I loved the Twilight convention a few years ago. People came together mostly without problems.
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Response 098
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I find that actually the most annoying thing isn't listed and thats the rp-ers who do so much for show, the flag wavers who want tv time and have no real idea what they are talking about. The people who hold themselves in uber high regard are annoying too, as all of us are important, no matter the amount of fame or name.
Macro-Suggestion: To be honest other than to weed out the frauds and make it abundantly clear which ones those are, I don't know. As for the egos, its hard to take folks who think that highly down a peg, but perhaps just finding ways to cut their media time? Again, not sure there is a way to do anything.
Micro-Suggestion: I usually try and point out to those who are frauding it that this is exactly what they are doing.When possible, some cases I will admit to backing off for fear of safety. When I meet "Lestat" or "Dracula" I try to politely tell them how full of it they are. And as for egos, I try to ignore them, and avoid paying into the fame for them, be that not tuning into a show or not buying a product they produce.
Praise: I think that as an open evolving community of people who have like issues that it is a support system, and that is of such importance, especially to those just coming into their own. the idea that we can support eachother, even if only by being there, is such a wonderful thing.
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Response 099
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: I don't have any complain
Macro-Suggestion: Just listen and talk to me
Micro-Suggestion: I cant do anything myself, but I hope to find people who wants to talk to me in person
Praise: I love it, for me its my family !!
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Response 100
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: i find it hard to find fellow vampires, and since my search started i dont like what i found, every one has the right way, but all hear is of ways to be or not to be one, you are or you are not, probably half crazy as the dark dawn rises. the whole thingis too confusing and doesnt resonate well with me, i want the energy from people, it strains my path to talk with other vampires, they don't understand my relationship with my donors
Macro-Suggestion: go with the flow, accept all forms of vampirism, sang and psi's stop fighting
Micro-Suggestion: i am withdrawing from any groups, i am living my own way feeding my own way
Praise: being in the open releases subconsious acceptance, and a golden thread of light to tasty asian, and sometimes other female midnight lust.
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Response 101
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: I don't want to bash specific members of the community however there are those of us that have harmful views of what the community should be and who should be included in said community. We can not cater to those who's views are entirely outlandish and threatening to the overall world-view of the vampire community. That being said, certain individuals HAVE been removed from the community who have had negative impacts on it. I could go on about the shenanigans that goes on in the VC bot online and off, but I'm not going to beat a dead horse. Obviously there ARE problems with the community as a whole, and hopefully it gets addressed here.
Points to be made: the bigots need to go, and everyone has to get off their high-horse. As an individual involved in various groups/organizations I refrain from "coming out of the coffin" because of the negativity within and towards our community. I refuse to be stereotyped based on some of the individuals who subscribe to the community.
I can not and do not wish to be a part of something that attracts so much negativity. (positive energy feeder) And I have, for the longest time, ignored the community and lived my life as I see it should be lived. But once in a while i creep back in only to find that the same crap is going on. The problems that the VC has have always been around. Remedies have been tried before, people have left the community when things weren't working out.
I don't think the problem lies in the structure and daily functions of the community, but in the people that subscribe to it.
Macro-Suggestion: Well we've excommunicated people before, sent out warning emails/messages/etc. about threatening individuals subscribing to the VC, and we've made public statements regarding negative events affecting the VC (ie. the looney 21 yr. old who shot up his neighbors 20 minutes away from where I live... his Facebook claimed he was a practicing Satanist and vampire... oh that went over REAL WELL on the 6'oclock news.)
Oh how social media is completely screwing the VC up. (I swear if Don Henrie pops up on my FB account one more time...)
I don't think we can effectively stamp out the problem of those who are certifiable, but at the same time we can't just leave them to their own devices.
I was both in love with and mortified by Merticus' April Fools joke. (I seriously was thinking "oh crap who pissed him off?!") The email was emotionally charged with negativity, ego, and was downright scary to read. I went to work that day thinking "wtf just happened?! I think the world is going to end!" and was completely relieved when the second email came down clarifying the intentions set in the first. - Seriously don't scare me like that!
Micro-Suggestion: I am going to... do what I usually do and get the fuck out while I can. And I'll check back in every so often to see if there are any improvements. The crap that usually goes on in OVC chats/forums/etc. makes me feel sad, depressed, like there's no hope for the community. I honestly want to be a part of it all, but it's negatively affecting all of us. The news reports I occasionally get emailed to me just make me feel even worse about our future as a community. Every day it seems that someone is killing another by means of blood-letting, or biting, or eating someone's face off... SERIOUSLY?! and all of this negatively affects our community. It makes me feel like we are all guilty by association for the crimes of others.
Praise: Well there definitely doesn't seem to be any quick fix for our problems... since they are the same problems that the VC has had since day one. But we can't exactly ignore it either. I thought the idea of some sort of tribunal was a serious step forward in improving the overall outlook that others have of the VC and of handling internal affairs. Good job weeding out the pedophiles who use our community as an excuse for what they do...
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Response 102
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypochondria
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: i really like the possibility to read the the chat-meetings, they are very educative. the news letter i receive on my mail account help me to keep up to date
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Response 103
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: I have found a scathing, ego-centric, judgmental, and divided environment within many of the VC/OVC groups, forums, all encompassing. Never had I witnessed such a divided and fragmented subculture. At this point it is questionable to call it a Community due to its lack of cohesion. It is questionable due to a lack of permeability, if to seek a House or to join a Community is even possible or worthwhile? Deception, a complete lack of a cohesive environment, intolerance, biases, a lack of respect at the most basic social levels, petty bickering, slander, ego-centrism, lack of professionalism, betrayal of confidence, Communities and Houses, that would not even return correspondence to a well written and serious, inquiry. Even slander and assumptions based on self perceived ideas are rampant, as well as passing of judgment. This is found in the majority parts of the OVC/VC. I feel that if the possibility of change, and the means to put these changes into practice by concerned Community members, at the individual and collective level, does not come soon, civil and worthwhile possible members would not be involved in the VC. Albeit, the effort and hard work that would need to follow the start of an alternative Community, would not be easy. Yet, the question begs to be asked. Is there another choice? My answer without further hesitation is, no there is no choice. For the Community to remain as it is, may result in its demise.
Macro-Suggestion: Community effort to bring the changes. At the micro to macro. Houses, that are serious need to be permeable to possible worthwhile members and a mutal discernment of a fit, is a must.
Group moderators must not allow certain wreched behavior to take place. As this reflects the Community. Logic and sound judgement must be used, rather than a "totalitarian" approach. Moderators and Elders would do the Community a service, by recommending individuals that through their ongoing action, would seem as candidates to proof their value to the community and to Houses that would carry the legacy of our Community.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 104
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: There is a total lack of communication among us. We don't reach out to each other.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 105
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: As a sanguine vampyre living in a rural community where I know of only a couple of others like me in the community I have reached out to others in metropolitan areas for connection and communication but do not seem to receive mutual respect or acceptance. It would be beneficial to maintain some contact with other vampyres in the region however I sometimes wonder if my age may be a factor...nearing 52 and self identified as vampyric since my early teenage years. It's not as if I want to be the leader or "elder" of some exclusive country club...I simply want to connect with my kind and find that over the years the opportunities to do so seem to have dwindled. My life is quite busy and being more active online seems to be the only outlet.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: I am proud of those who are working to spread information and seek proper recognition of vampyres as real and decent citizens of the broader world community.
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Response 106
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: My only complaint is that the vampire community is not more open, I understand that humans can be assholes and they fear wat they dont understand, but you guy deserve to freely come out without fear of judgement.
Macro-Suggestion: Start off slow, let people know that this is wat we believe in and we're here to stay.spread the word (lol or blood)
Micro-Suggestion: What is required of me. Contact me through email. Ill help the cause but it cant only be me.
Praise: Praise the blood
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Response 107
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Bullying, on occasion, is a problem. Some have endeavored to silence any expression of spirituality, no matter the context. However, community members have stood against the bullies recently and I see a dramatic recession in bullying.
Macro-Suggestion: I believe that someone who is cursing, calling other's name, and making insults should be banned from the forum where that is happening. In my view, bad behavior crosses the line of freedom of expression and should not be rewarded.
Micro-Suggestion: House Rakoczy has formed the Vampyres for Freedom of Expression page and members have addressed bullies in the forums.
Praise: There is much right about the Community: education, support, and friendship
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Response 108
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: complaints little things change times change adjustments are always happening. We cannot call ourself only by what we are. But also our position within the larger community, as the one called Humanity. Our Issues go beyond our own terrains. So got no complaints we are in a time of change..old things might die off. A shame sometimes. But new seeds are growing
Macro-Suggestion: None is there to say precisely what we ought to do and so it be done. For each of us have our own choices to make. New seeds grow not by what the past beholds but more unto the future.
Micro-Suggestion: I watch and wait. In time I will well I am part of some groups I guess. My influence is little but it will grow in time if needed. Change is inevitable but sometimes you need to wait.
Praise: We are doing good as in we show the bullshit and the groups that are troubling that once had a huge name now are much weaker.
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Response 109
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Intolerance, in my opinion, is the worst issue affecting our Community. Those who put down others for either their spiritual beliefs, feeding practices, or anything else that differentiates one vampire from another. There are individuals who make it a point to attack anyone who dares to hold an opinion different than their own. There are two individuals who spread such hate and venom online they seriously impact the OVC in a negative way, making some afraid to speak their minds for fear of a vitriolic attack.
Macro-Suggestion: Individuals who consistently troll or harass others, should be reprimanded. If they do not desist, they should be banned from the groups they are attempting to poison.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to speak to those individuals in the community who are Elders or Heads of Houses about the two individuals I am referring to in specific, to ask that action be taken to ban them.
Praise: Camraderie. I have met so many great people, both in the OVC and in RL, who have enriched my life as friends and teachers.
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Response 110
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: It's become an identification certain nefarious characters can use to hide behind, in their efforts to prey on unsuspecting individuals in illegal ways. It may be a statistically small occurrence, but there are still entirely too many posers that can pretend to be vampires to get some unwitting youth or swan to fall for them, so they can lure them into acts of violence... or worse.
Macro-Suggestion: The Community must show solidarity in exposing these frauds for whom and what they are: untrustworthy criminals. There must be more of an effort to work with the police on matters such as this. More awareness will ensure that the police only target the frauds, instead of the genuine vampires.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to cooperate with the local neighborhood watch; and, should such an event occur, fully explain to them what's going on, so they can contact the police and the police can legally handle the problem.
Praise: The community has gotten a lot closer, a lot more casual, and a lot more united on what the facts are. Most of the community's members are agreed on what's fiction and what isn't.
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Response 111
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: People who do not understand the archetype of the vampire/vampyre in a sophisticated way. That is to say, those types of people who are either too young or too immature to fully appreciate the beauty and grace that goes into it, and tend to misuse the archetype to fit their need for violence, power and blood lust.
Macro-Suggestion: Considering there are private online groups with tight and in some cases a rigorous screening process I would say that we are on our way to fixing the problem.
Micro-Suggestion: I do not associate with those people who I feel do not understand what it means to be vampire in the same way that I do.
Praise: Overall I think the OVC provides a much needed safety net and place of acceptance for those people just beginning their journey. Offline I think closed communities are stronger then before and moving in a positive direction.
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Response 112
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: It's pretty much all of the above. You have people who can't get over their own bullshit and just accept that there are people with different ideas and opinions. It's a big world out there and plenty of room for everyone. Given, there are times when we need to tell people "no". No, we don't want sexual or violent predators here. No, we don't want "pokemon" (i'm half ___ and a quarter ___).
Macro-Suggestion: As a group we need to put a stop to (or ignore) some of the people who's sole goal is to do nothing more than be a shit stirrer..enough drama already. We need to find a way to authenticate who is in the OVC (and weed out the fake profiles and what not). Since it would be extremely difficult to do this, I generally avoid the OVC and tend to work with my local community..in real time. We also need to have some kind of awareness campaign to get the word out that predators are not welcome here, and to warn younger people that not everyone who says the are a vampire has your best interests at heart.
Micro-Suggestion: For one, I have a radio show and I make it a point to get the word out that there are people here who are not good people. It's a small number but too many for me. As far as the drama on the OVC..I pretty much block the worst offenders and don't have much to do with it otherwise..
Praise: The fact that there is a support system for those out there who feel like they are all alone. There are good people here who help others.
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Response 113
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: All those attributes go hand in hand, so if one thing is intolerable, it would be the snow ball effect of each attribute on it's own accord.
Macro-Suggestion: No complaints that I have seen save from a few trolls within the community that are always on the negative level.
Micro-Suggestion: Watch from the sidelines and eat more popcorn as the humility continues.
Praise: Comradery, nuff said.
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Response 114
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: There are too many criminals and pedophiles hanging around the OVC.
Macro-Suggestion: Everyone should be made to disclose if they’ve been convicted of a crime. It shouldn’t matter when or what the crime was for but obviously not traffic tickets. We have a right to know what kind of friends we’re hanging out with. It’s selfish to put others in jeopardy by protecting your friends. You have no idea what they’re doing behind your back.
Micro-Suggestion: I’m trimming my friends list to only include those I know are trustworthy. My 14 year old niece was solicited by a man twice her age. I tried to contact someone in the Jacksonville area about it but never had any of my emails answered. I set up another Facebook profile because I didn’t want it to get back to my employer that I knew a “bunch of vampire weirdos.”
Praise: I like the updates being sent to my iPhone. Vampire Community News is a great source for what’s taking place in the OVC. I really like the pod casts and articles being published. Mikyla should get a pat on the back for helping those who are suffering from depression. I’ve been there and know it’s a hard road to go down. I think we need to stop fighting with each other and find answers to the medical problems we suffer from.
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Response 115
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Vampyres are an independend thinking group, but sometimes this brings in some members who have naricisic thinking. They are only in it to feed their own ego.
Macro-Suggestion: Although everyone has free will, the groups need to always encourage honorable behavior.
Micro-Suggestion: I live by a honor code when comes to my behavoir. I honor myself as a Vampyre, but also, respect those around me.
Praise: We are more open to different walks of live then our groups. Because we are different then main stream, we understand and welcome the differences in others. Also, we believe in enpowerment not power over others.
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Response 116
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: My biggest complaint is the lack of transparency. When people know that someone has done something unsavory they prefer to hide the info rather than put the info out into the general populace's hands. (i.e.; "the elders are handling it")
Macro-Suggestion: In particular, if someone is found to have commited a crime (of mundane laws) I believe the pertinent info (charges, etc) should be made public knowlege. There is no viable reason why this information cannot be disseminated out to the people at large.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 117
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I just think that some people claim to be something when they are only that to seem cool to other people.
Macro-Suggestion: To get that a condition is just that, a condition it doesn't make you magic.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan on being the critical self that I am, I can't be anyone else, and to question people when they need questions.
Praise: That it's ok to be "freak" I'm a Maenad and I have learned self acceptance.
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Response 118
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 119
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: the real problem with the VC is so huge and so obvious to outsiders that it's "an elephant in the room." The VC will never, ever, ever face it, and will never evolve past its current status without doing so. It's pointless to even try to discuss it, and pointless to talk about other issues without resolving it. But the VC is so deep in denial and rationalization, it will never face the truth. All the problems we see in the VC as a whole have their roots in this one issue.
Macro-Suggestion: There isn't anything, until Issue Number One is resolved, which it won't be.
Micro-Suggestion: Well, eventually I'm going to grow a pair and write about this. Since I'm pretty much PNG in the VC anyway, I don't have much to lose. And no one will listen, so, what the heck.
Praise: Hahahahahahaha! You're kidding, right? Nothing. Zip, zero, nothing. The VC isn't a construction, it's an organic entity that has formed spontaneously. No one can mold it because no one "made" it, it's simply an aggregation of self-selected individuals.
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Response 120
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: I have a real problem with twilight. Not the twilight gathering or the people there, but the twilight movie and books turning vampires into sparkly gay shit.
Macro-Suggestion: I propose a blood party.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 121
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: wish there were more vampire friendly people in legislation.
Macro-Suggestion: well I guess as the community ages more vampires will want to get into legislation.
Micro-Suggestion: I try and stay active in local politics that effect my community. write my senators and the president.
Praise: the fellowship in the vampire donor community is great. also vampires do a lot for charities in their personal lives.
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Response 122
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 123
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Some of the above attributes are definitely problems with select few groups especially online. One cannot establish between fact and fiction without a solid foundation, honesty and integrity (without endangering ourselves to those that hunt us). There are many who believe they are vampires, those of us that have substantial characteristics and are seeking facts about the condition and are seeking to learn more about ourselves. We need more FACTS, less egotism online. I for instance, would love to see a group that could help track heritage of when our ancestors traveled to the U.S. (or whichever country you are in now) and get that firmly established. Then, I'd like to see some scientific research on our species to see what affects our abilities for real (besides Crossses and Holy Water - joke there). I feel education is needed deeply on our species, period. We live in a culture where Hollywood has made people think they are vampires when they are not. It has also awakened others who may be vampires, but didn't know it. But Hollywood is about dollars, not about education. We could do a lot as a community, being many of us have high intellect, to educate, like some groups have attempted to do. Could we get some scientists and more doctors aboard or would that put our community in danger?
Macro-Suggestion: The Group can create a global website, an intensive projects, that would go back to the heavy immigration periods of history and track when our community fled and to which countries/locations. Furthermore, any documented scientific studies should be posted that we have to date. The website would be prone to of course, non vampires wanting to be vampires, wanting to join. The problem is how to include these people who are in the community, without deluding these people further. I would suggest a website, however, if that doesn't work, what about asking an elder what is the best way to educate the community in their time (before technology). We have to do something or we will have between millions and literally billions of people in the world thinking they are vampires because Hollywood and television has glorified the community. Please, even I need to keep it in check. I just want FACTs from now on and if I had a! grant from a university, would do the study myself and publish my findings where they might be most useful to the community.
Micro-Suggestion: I am going to continue to search for FACTS (vampire DNA and traits) and try to pin personally which part of my family (ancestors), one of whom is from Eastern Europe, may have spread the vampire trait to myself.
Praise: There are a select few who have done a wonderful job of educating the community on safety issues with blood, cravings, etc. This is a good thing and the fact that there are organizations out there to support a new generation is good-but do we truly have all the facts ourselves? We should as a community, down to each individual, become responsible, if we already have not, for getting our heritage straight and making sure we are where we belong. Vampire or not, you don't want to make the mistake of pretending an entire life to be what one is not. Correct?
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Response 124
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: I have no complaints about it, they all seem nice polite people who are willing to help.
Macro-Suggestion: This website, Psivamp, should probably create an archive of information, so answers to simple questions can be found quickly and answered, then users can add and discuss it.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: I love being able to get opinions and helpful advice from everyone who can offer it, Ive not seen any bad behaviour
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Response 125
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Many Vampires are loners by choice (nature)in reality & simply post fairy tales online, since no one can refute their claims.
Macro-Suggestion: Let's use our amazing powers of observation to ignore these bullshit artists right out of existence!
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to continue calling spades when I see them, all vamps should do likewise. We are the solution & must proactively cut wawy any parts of the collective which are diseased with fallacy.
Praise: The good thing about the collective is that it has coalesced at all! Glad it's here. Others may like to post BS but I will not!
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Response 126
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: The vampire community that I am familiar with is very helpful, positive and realistic. I have no complaints.
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Response 127
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: So many so called vampires are in fact obese (or anorexic) D&D geeks still living in mom & dad's basement, working bullshit mcjob and sitting behind a key board talking shit on internet social networking sites.
Macro-Suggestion: I doubt there is a solution to the problem. Only to put a stigma on social networking for vampires and do the vast majority of one's networking in the real world where people can't hide behind avatars and cyber identities.
Micro-Suggestion: I have very limited participation with online networking for the vampire community. I kind of monitor and watch, but rarely do I get involved that way. I almost exclusively deal with people in the real world.
Praise: I do think there is anything that stands out as being exceptionally good right now. Maybe when Twilight is long out of style and all the kinderbats have returned to their Abercrombie fashion sense, things will improve.
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Response 128
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I have taken such a large step back from the VC because there is a gross amount of negativity. I'm sick and tired of the ones who think they are better than everyone else, have a "higher than thou" attitude, and feel they are well versed in all matters vampire. The VC is about support and acceptance.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: The VCN provides a wealth of information that we didn't have available 15-years ago. I have to say, I am a little jealous, however, I also helped pioneer and provide the correct information that is now disseminated to the "newbies".
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Response 129
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypochondria
Complaint: Quit acting like pansies and just fuck me already!!! I sought out real vampires to fulfil my fetishes and be a donor. I don’t want to listen to them go on like emos about who is the most authentic vampire or spiritual path.
Macro-Suggestion: I come from the BDSM lifestyle so vampires for me help complete my desires and I don’t mind sharing my blood with them. We should have a profile site so that vampires can pick and choose from people like me. I want to join a coven that will let me explore sex rituals with them that isn’t some pagan group.
Micro-Suggestion: Seduction is my vice.
Praise: I like the blogs I read but I’m really not into the whole vampiryism stuff. I leave that to my masters.
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Response 130
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: The South African Vampyre Alliance is out of control.
Macro-Suggestion: Maybe stop them from collecting our names and where we live. We didn’t sign up for this to be ruled over like peasant subjects.
Micro-Suggestion: I left the organisation before it cost me my work.
Praise: Freedom to not be chained to one philosophy or oligarch.
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Response 131
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: 1: There are too many posers on the board. It's hard to tell if most people are telling the truth or not because there are so many posers let in.
2: There is too much animosity on the board. It's understandable in some cases, but I think people need to be a little nicer to each other, and in some cases, agree to disagree in stead of fighting.
Macro-Suggestion: 1: Maybe have a more strict sign up form? Maybe ask questions like "Why do you consider yourself a vampire?" or "Why do you think you should be a part of this board?" or something like that, and not let people in unless they have good answers, and good grammar as well!
2: Maybe the moderators could crack down more on the trolls and haters in the forum (as well as the posers) and also be nicer themselves, unless being mean is just necessary. Which in some cases, it is.
Micro-Suggestion: All I can really do is try to be nice to people, while maintaining good posts of my own, and not sounding like a poser (which of course I'm not) but I can't really do much besides that...
Praise: I like VCMB more than any other real vampire site I've been to, because for one, although it does have some posers, it has way less than some of the other sites, and second, although there are a few "cliques" it is generally an open-minded and engaging site, and has a good (and fun) community over all. And most of the moderators/admins are awesome!
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Response 132
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: There seems to be a large amount of bickering caused by those who somehow feel any and everything they say should be law and never be challenged. The danger is that MANY I know choose to be a part of NO group, house or organization based upon that..driving those away who seek acceptance is self defeating
Macro-Suggestion: no one can control anothers actions really..i suppose its the nature of the beast. GROUPS however, should be closely monitored for those who seek ONLY to cause desention and issues...
Micro-Suggestion: I have actual refrained from joining converations on certain topics due to knowing it will cause an outburst..Self control is what is required..short of that what can ANYONE really do to control the ego of another?
Praise: what is good is the sense of belonging in a very isolated way of life..there ARE those who work hard to make everyone welcome and their opinions heard..just too few compared to the spammers
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Response 133
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: the vampire community at large has many problems from lack of overall organisation, knowledge sharing, teaching of skills, manners and socially acceptable practices, and very few reliable and honest public figures but i feel our greatest problem and weakness is our lack of community between all the different groups that claim to represent us (be they communities, houses, factions, orders or groups) and the constant arguments about what is and is not a vampire or which type of vampire is weaker and which is superior (psi's versus sangs blah blah etc.)
we are a divided community, to use a global example we have more political division and tin pot would be leaders than the middle east. and the few good voices out there are often drowned out or contemplating suicide because of the larger amount of unscrupulous, incompetent, egotistical, windbags who are getting most of the publicity and making us all look like retarded role players / future mental patients or out right morons.
which is why for the most part i have withdrawn from the community and only talk to those i trust (mostly members of my former forums, members of my former house and certain members of the AVA) or those they have asked me to talk to.
for example Merticus asked me to fill this out and since he's a decent individual i obliged.
Macro-Suggestion: the kind of organisation and development the community truly needs would require money, time, hard work and patience.
it would also require a lot of folks to learn to get along and leave their ego's and prejudices behind.
Micro-Suggestion: Honestly ill keep trying become a successful business man or win the lottery so that i can help provide financial support to any structured and helpful organisation that might form or already exist in the community.
other than that all i can do is talk to those who want to talk and ignore the idiots
Praise: there are a few groups (AVA for example) who do try hard to provide knowledge and experience for those that need/ask for it, and try to give a more practical representation of vampires to others. but they are few and far between.
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Response 134
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Vampiri are more territorial than even the common man, and they do not tolerate the slightest differences between communities, in my experience.
Macro-Suggestion: As a collective when attempting to remedy issues we should first try talking them over, then appealing to common sense. If that doesn't work then we should try reasoning it out once more before moving to arbitration with a third unrelated party. If the situation does not change we must agree to be civil publicly but privately keep our distance.
Micro-Suggestion: Isolation is not the answer, working to understand is. That is my plan.
Praise: As a community as a whole, I believe that we stand the best chance at survival and public acceptance if we hold onto our individuality while somewhat attempting to conform. This does not we "sell out" it means we adapt, something we are very good at. I think we are fortunate in this respect and it shows our nobility.
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Response 135
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: I lost my baby after I became pregnant from a vampyre house that used me for sex. At first they told me it was needed for their blood magick rituals and I did enjoy it. After a couple times I was pimped out to their friends to pay for their drunken blood orgies they had on weekends. Once I had my baby girl I was no good to them so they called social welfare and told them I was using drugs. Everybody in that house was smoking meth but me! I didn’t have any money to hire a good lawyer to fight them and finally had to give her to my grandparents. The house patrirarch prick thought after my baby was taken away that I’d stay because I needed a roof over my head and food to eat. I moved to another state and in with a group of vampyres who treated me better. I’m still trying to get my baby girl from my grandparents but at least I’m getting help!
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: Pick the vampyre house you join better than me.
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Response 136
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I just wish we as a group could stop all the sparkle, sparkle and other nonsense!!
Macro-Suggestion: Truth of our condition should be fore most!
Micro-Suggestion: I have a no nonsense approach,I HAVE A BIO ENERGY DEFICIENCY I believe using the word Vampire makes people think of all the holliweird hype!
Praise: Damien Davile"s group the Vampire church is for bio energy users and has helped me understand myself with out all the hype and bull.
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Response 137
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: The oogie boogie effect they so desire with their "black clothing with crosses around their necks and painted faces."If they truly enjoy the style individually versus the shock effect,then cool. Or the ones who go around acting as if they will drain their enemies or mind control them.wow. seriously?They seems to be attention seekers due to whatever circumstances they may have encountered,but they dont seem to get it how they are mucking up the personna for the ones who want to just "live"instead of creating a stage presence. I have seen houses with bickering and drama between members or other houses srguing among each other.
Macro-Suggestion: seeking such attentions should first do their homework about what they "truly"feel and believe.Then find a structured means of learning and growing with known representatives that HAVE the experience such as TheVampirMetrou.com.If that doesnt work,try being honest with yourself and be who you are"style,personality,etc" and/or recognize that you can be who you truly are and enjoy without taking away the fun aspects of the attire,etc.As for the houses with the drama issues: get over yourselves and your little tantrums that give them the look of idiotic pretenders and weakens their appearance.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan on continuing to emphasize the genuine lifestyle of vampirism versus the hollywood and starry eyed hopefuls that portrays the "falling into the sheeps fold"of fitting a certain look or behavior system.To hopefully help cause an awakening to the ability to be who they are without the excessive theatrics so they can truly begin to take themselves seriously resulting in others taking them seriously versus ridicule and violence.
Praise: I have seen a few changed towards finding common ground between houses and individuals through networking and "truly awakening: I applaud the Vampir Metrou with opening their doors via internet,radio and word of mouth to help dispell the myths and misconceptions towards not only vampirism but also towards co existing among various faiths,lifestyles,ideals,etc.
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Response 138
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: In both the online Vampire community and the community at large, I see this dominant air of egotism or elitism. Personally, I feel this is detrimental to the community and detracts from what is otherwise a highly intelligent, wise network of people.
Macro-Suggestion: I feel that we, as a community, need to come back to center and do away with some of the red tape, so to speak. We need to open our minds, hearts, and souls and make ourselves more accessible to one another, especially those currently awakening that are new to the community and need guidance and information.
Micro-Suggestion: Within this community, I maintain a certain level of open-mindedness and accessibility and am willing to help those that are new to community learn and grow in relation to their vampiric nature.
Praise: Both the global Vampire community and the online Vampire community are very special in many ways. We are a growing community of great thinkers and philosophers, great networkers and innovators. Yes, we're all different, all individuals...and there will be times when we fight, or disagree on things. But our strength lays in our ability to remain strong and to stay connected. We are a community, and we serve the purpose of educating one another and the world about the vampiric condition.
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Response 139
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: First I think people need to stop using the fact that they are vampyres to take advantage of other people. Second of all I get tired of the fact that it seems the vampyre community caters to the rich and doesnt give a shit about poor vampyres. we dont have money to travel everywhere so we dont belong.
Macro-Suggestion: Get your egos out of the way and just accept people for who they are despite their financial position.
Micro-Suggestion: I have been looking for people like myself to practice with and have not been wasting time with the ones who are on a power trip.
Praise: Well in my area there isnt much good. Not enough people to start a house.
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Response 140
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: The community is far too tolerable of assholes who try to tear it down. I see people whining about everyone being mean to them but acting the same way themselves. They do nothing but sit on their bums sniping at others or trying to one up the people they don’t like. I can’t imagine how silly this all looks to those researching us or people thinking about donating. We look like a bunch of mentally deranged lunatics.
Macro-Suggestion: I think people like Merticus, Darci, Zaar, Deacon etcetera are already doing all they can. They need our help instead of complaints. Without some of the leaders we have in the community I think it would spin apart and go completely out of control.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: Groups like the VVC and VCN are the best examples I know for keeping us in the know. The articles from Graveyard Press, GetFanged, and South Africa News are very informative. The translation project is an amazing undertaking and should be commended. Vampyres for Freedom of Expression is inspiring. So many good things are going on if we’d just take a minute to look past the negative.
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Response 141
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: In my belief theres nothing wrong with the Vampire Community, but to save ourselves from others online or others around us in this world of humanity its best for us Vampires to not be known and too stay hiding, in the shadows from the human eyes. I myself as a Vampire stay hiding no need for us to be hunted down, talked about, or even made fun of from others that dont believe. We as Vampires don't need that be safe hiding in darkness or shadows.
Macro-Suggestion: I, should first do Stay hiding, then stay in shadows from the human eyes.
Micro-Suggestion: I, Vamp Iris, plan help others be safe and keep the Vampire community safe and going strong.
Praise: Vampires have been around for decades and should live happy just like all human in the world
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Response 142
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: those who want to fight for nothing and become very rude & crude jsut to get their kicks...they are cowards. The On-line community is fucked up and prevents any learning or growing by a few Bullies that Admin dose nothing about what-so-ever? Then a group gangs up on you and the rest of the cowards just sit nad watch without coming to thr Aid of the person who is being bullied. Just what kind of message does that send out to the general public? What kind of other shitheads does this attract when they see that bullies can say or do anything they want and get away with it? The system is totaly FUCKED UP....
Macro-Suggestion: at the first sign of being sarcastic rude and wanting to pick a fight then give them a warning & caution them about using their friends as a proxy agent to post shit against you when they are the ones behind it.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to leave this pack of shit disturbers and trouble makers who want to fight anything and everyone.
Praise: Not too much when a small monority causes trouble for everyone else. The keeps posting the opposite of what you say in any future Post's on a separate tpoic from the 1st Post made. it could be weeks or months later. Then they get their friends to Post a LIKE to their fighting Post's made about you for No valid reason except to fight. This bullshit survey won't change a FUCKEN thing with the Internet and those shits attracted to it.
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Response 143
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: To my mind the vampire community needs more cohesion. The main complaint I would have is the difference in what people believe vampirism to be and the way people are shot down in flames if they dare to offer a different view or opinion on the subject. I think the elders and those groups seeking to portray vampires in a positive way are doing their best but it appears, online at least, that there isn't even any agreement on what should be done or what vampirism is within those groups. I worry about awakening vampires seeking support and advice because there are so many conflicting sites and no real way for someone not in the know to learn which is accurate or otherwise. The popularity of True Blood, Twilight etc has also skewered peoples view on vampires and it is increasingly becoming difficult to separate those obessessed by such things and genuine awakening vampires. In the UK at least there are not enough offline groups and communities. vampires here are very secret and solitary. If there are groups around they should make themselves easier to find for those that may need them.
Macro-Suggestion: More patience and acceptance of different views on online websites. Some do not allow the subject of blood drinking or meeting up to be discussed. I dont agree with this as to my mind this is an essential part of living this vampire life. Yes it can be dangerous to meet people you've only met online but as a vampire it is very difficult to meet like-minded people otherwise. There are many different ways to feed off energy, but people that do this are all vampires, there does not need to be so much segregation between sangs and psi for example. Allow for open discussions on vampirism, allow peoples views to be heard.
Micro-Suggestion: I have always felt I should play a larger part in the vampire community, but have had to weigh up the pros of doing so, with the fact that I have a job that would not accept my vampirism if it was found out. I would like to write some educating articles on vampirism and post them online. The thought has always in the back of my mind to maybe start up a vampire group of some description here in the UK but i wouldn't know where to begin and for the reason mentioned above. I have helped three awakening vampires offline, that i met online initially and my door is always open to others that need that help.
Praise: The wealth of information on the accurate and genuine sites online is fantastic. The majority of people online are happy to listen and to help. The sense of community around those familiar names that have always seemed to have a presence online is strong. The work that Suscitatio is doing is very positive and I will continue to support it. It does seem we are entering a new age where vampires may for the first time be beginning to come out the coffin so to speak and be known amongst "mundanes" so I think conducting surveys like this is a very positive thing to do and will help the vampire community in general.
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Response 144
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Many groups and individuals are allowed far more legitimacy than deserved. Groups like Aset Ka should be treated as the hoax they present to be.
Macro-Suggestion: A group of leaders should be appointed to officially regulate the OVC.... those who don't accept their authority could simply piss off.
Micro-Suggestion: Accept and engage with serious appointed community leaders
Praise:
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Response 145
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I know I’m going to be ridiculed for saying this but that’s the risk I’ll take. Belfazaar Ashantison believes he’s helping the vamp community with his television appearances but he’s not. In my eyes he’s no better than Don Henrie, Michelle Belanger or Father Sebastiaan by putting his ego first. Cutting someone and sucking their blood is a horrible example to set for teenagers who don’t have the experience to know what they’re doing.
Macro-Suggestion: The vamp community needs to stop enabling this behavior. They should pay more attention to education for those who seek it instead of putting it out there for Susie Q. Public to see. Kids have fallen in love with the sex appeal of the vampire and now they can find people who live this lifestyle 24-7. They drink blood because they need it but the kids watching those videos don’t always know or pay attention to that. I doubt many even care because it’s sexy and edgy to them. We need to do more to detect mental health issues before they get out of control.
Micro-Suggestion: I work with youths who have been in and out of foster care. Some of these kids have stumbled across videos on YouTube before and I know one who contracted Hepatitis from drinking the blood of another child. I’m sorry but this is very personal for me.
Praise: It’s great that we’re organized and talking. I’d like to see more chats about awakening.
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Response 146
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Too much inner conflict over such issues of psy vamps not being recognized within the community. Some vampires only recognize sang vamps as being true vampires!
Macro-Suggestion: Remember the definition of a vampire and stop the fighting within the community!
Micro-Suggestion: I work with the newly awakend vampire as my contribution back to the vampire community. I give the definition of a true vampire and give the newly awakend the basic types of vampires.
Praise: When I was newly awakend, the community was very patient with me and gave me the basic knowledge needed to live as an awakend vampire. For this, I am grateful and will pass on the knowledge to the newly awakend as they cross my path.
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Response 147
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: If you look closely at all those listed, they're all HUMAN problems. My constant admonition of the community is that most become religiously 'trapped in their own self defined darkness' trying, albeit over the top in a LOT of instances, to be an image and nothing more. Not even still a human which we all are. Speaking of being 'better' than humans, yet prove it not. Claiming leadership OVER people instead of kinship WITH people. Playing power games WITH people instead of leaders having a responsibility TO their people. Making up stories about ones self to feed a conversation, an ego, a dead spot inside...and rarely doing anything for anyone who doesn't look like you. Such bigotry have people I know been subject to, after a personal invite from 'high up' to an event in NYC because they did not dress the same. Always has been my qualm with the community, is all this talk of being great with very little to show that greatness has ever been attempted, let alone achieved. All you have to do is look at who is still hiding. From themselves, from the world, from their neighbors...from the light. Whose actions speak louder than their words? That's the main problem I see with the community, and the main reason I left it behind a long time ago, as there are few willing to put in the time and effort necessary to actually BE great, but rather put 10 times more energy and effort into being just as pety and dishonest and human as we all still are. I have places I am going, and things i'm going to do. The community was simply becoming too much of a waste of time hoping that more would step forward to spend time and continue the monumental effort of being actual leaders rather than spending ALL their time being less than useful in many instances. Greatness doesn't only come from single people. It comes from large groups of them as well working towards common goals...and this group of people i've found over and over again isn't interested in greatness...but only their own darkness.
Macro-Suggestion: I've written and given too many examples of what people should do for people. I live my life as a person should regarding others. I can go on for hours and pages and books about what the community should do, but most will fall on deaf ears, and blind eyes. Change comes from within, and won't happen until each and every individual person wants it for themselves. I will not assume to know what that is for any single individual that I have not met in person.
Micro-Suggestion: While i've been accused of dying of HIV and not having 'time' for the community, the real truth is that I find the vampyre community a lost cause. Too many people who insist on lies and create problems where none are desired or needed. I have spent time with my Family (vampyre and non) for the many years since I turned my back on the community, and I give you leave to go to New Orleans, my home, one of MANY places my family exists, and just ask around about me. You will rarely find people who ever even heard the name 'Michael Rendier', but Cody is a different story. I've spent my years doing what I think everyone should do. Go ahead and keep your image...go ahead and keep your darkness, but add more to it. You can be more than just a piece of clothing, a hair style, some metal a party and a pair of acrylic fangs. Like any person on this planet, you can choose to be Genuine. My darkness is only one small part of who I am...and that person is continually evolving and becoming more. At this point, I describe myself as 'My horns hold up my halo and my wings cover my tail'. It seems, to me at least, that once people manage the fancy dress, the pair of fangs and a 'name', that is the end of their growth. All this talk about 'glamor' and 'abilities' and 'empathy' and 'need for energy' and 'subsistance on the energy of others' and building ones self up into these gargantuan images of 'the most powerful' and 'the beginner' or 'the follower', yet rarely do I see any who come close to deserving any of their self imposed titles. All this talk of communing with spirits and magic and ritual etc, yet I hear very few speak of the things that i've heard from and discussed with the human spirit and the energies that I must subsist on. Those things bigger and deeper than myself. I have on more than a few occasions given absolutely everything I have to help someone in need, because my magic only works when there is no personal desires or wants involved. When it's purely for another. Time is spent looking for problems, and negative aspects, and argueing and finger pointing...instead of putting pety things aside and combining efforts to achieve actually big things. Take for example New Orleans again...where certain vampyre leaders, not lords or ladies, but Leaders came together and now take time several holidays a year to spend thousands of dollars on feedings for those who don't have anything on days where you are only sposed to be happy if you have some sort of 'family' you can be with. Complete Strangers come out to the heart of a beleaguered city and provide food for people. I'm known for the random distribution of places to sleep, food, smokes and fresh socks to homeless kids and gutterpunks, because I've been there with them at times. I know their pains, i know their anguishes...i've suffered them as well. Anything that can be done to help aleviate the suffering of others? Yeah, I'm all about that. I'm about using my abilities (magical and not) to help others, to become more than just a mear human who calls himself a vampire for any number of reasons...as I'm sure very few of the community would ever put the time into learning about me, and why i consider myself a vampyre, how being around the energy of others intimately tied to the state of my health...what i'm doing with myself to compliment that small part of my identity, nor even take the time out to read the multitude of writings (alas that have fallen into disuse lately) I've written on the subject. Regardless of any of the fires that will likely be started here, I'll still be doing the same...and lending my help at any time possible to anyone who wants to do such as well. I may have turned my back on the community as a whole, but that makes me no less vampyre than playing football in HS and two years in the Army makes me not gay. Very few know of my greatness, and I do not intend on elucidating here how most of the world knows of me without knowing it's ME. I plan to remain in service to my family. They are my heart and soul...and my reason for living. I will be better tomorrow than I was yesterday...and always because of today.
Praise: I have only to speak of the community in NOLA, as this is where I've lived for many years, and where my observations are at. Check out NOVA. Take examples from there.
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Response 148
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: I would say the ratio of online user to real life community members is uneven
Macro-Suggestion: Offer tips and experiences on how to balance out "life in the community" and "regular" society
Micro-Suggestion: i would offer any advice or share my personal experiences with new members. both online and offline
Praise: Lots of websites by veteran members with advice and open minds
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Response 149
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: The well of the nameless needs reinstituted. This was effective before the sin nomin and the judicial council. Otherkin should also be told to keep their fairy wings out of our business. We don’t need otherkin poking around trying to convince us were some animal that doesn’t exist. Not everyone is transgendered so I’m tired of hearing about that every time I turn around. Since when does someone have to chop off their dick to be taken seriously? I complain alot but you asked to hear it!
Macro-Suggestion: We need to publish a list of names of people who aren’t worthy to be in the vampire community and drive them out like rats. Why doesn’t the community have a list of where everyone lives and how to contact them? It would sure help vampires looking for donors.
Micro-Suggestion: Duh I just suggested it.
Praise: I love the beach burns we have here and hope they have them where I’m moving next year. It’ll be a shame to lose touch with the friends I’ve made. I’ll just have to start a meetup group if I can’t find anyone in Tempe.
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Response 150
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Egotism ..........
Macro-Suggestion: Not sure. Other than respect.
Micro-Suggestion: I stay away from those whom are as such.
Praise: I believe that its a great site for us all types. Soemwhere we can find out info and hopefully help others.
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Response 151
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I think the biggest issue is that some people take themselves way to seriously and hold themselves higher then others. Another issues is when one denies, avoids, etc other types of vampires, meaning when Sanguinarians don't like or believe Psy's to be real and vice versa and etc.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: There is a sense of family when welcomed into the community, a sense of home and a place.
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Response 152
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: This should be taken with the crevat that I've seen only specific sides of the community, not it's totality. My opinion like every other is biased on my experiences.
That said, I have two principle complaints about the Vampire Community as it currently stands (cira 2012).
Firs and foremost I have an issue with the Ego's that we find within the community. People claim titles for the sake of them, badmouth other organizations and generally make a mess of things. Further, they take things *too* seriously sometimes as well. We don't need an "enforcement squad" for example, to hold people to the black veil or punish supposed offenders. When we can't even agree to bite the bullet and agree on one definition of "vampire" for the community to use when dealing with outside sources there's a serious problem. Everyone is clamouring for a voice, everyone thinks that their experiences should be the accepted definitions and general policies. A good portion throw their weight around in any important event so that they can promote their group or their person like this is a popularity contest instead of a subculture gathering. I run into it everywhere, from the big names to the smallest groups I've seen.
My second major problem with the VC is that overall, we don't seem to actually be doing anything. Aside from getting more media attention, how are we any different than we were five years ago? Any attempt to link us together, unify us to a common cause that reaches beyond subculture popularity contests (see point #1) invariably falls into stagnation or outright disintegrates. The AVA is the only group that actually manages to get ANYTHING done, and I'm sorry but they can't do it on their own. Why do we bother calling ourselves a community when we act like we're trying to herd cats?
Macro-Suggestion: I believe the community in general should agree that role playing, showmanship, courts and the like are private matters unique to that particular group. I also include most spiritual matters in that as well -- Psi and sexual feeding are about the closest to "spirituality" I would allow for on a *community wide* level.
Why? Because all of that simply gets in the way of the VC as a whole. I don't care if House of the Dreaming or the Sanguinarium (to throw out two random examples only, there are of course more) don't like that idea. The average vampire isn't looking to raise their 'court' or 'house' standing, they're in the VC for support, companionship and the like. Keep the collective seperate from the private and you'll minimize the friction, ego bloating and the like while keeping the few unstable ones confined to internal places. In a similar vein I think showmanship should be removed as entirely as possible.
Second, people PLEASE agree on a definition of vampire? Please? I don't care if the crowd that only believes psi is right doesn't like it. I don't care if the crowd that only believes blood is right doesn't like it. I especially don't care if you claim you feed from shower heads or something.
We're not going to make progress unless we can AGREE ON SOMETHING. Outside the community it would be MUCH easier to deal with people if we could all agree on WHAT WE THINK. Much easier to get a doctor to look at your blood and try to find a new illness, or a team of experts to test psi phenomena, or to send mundane (normal) person to sources that at least match each other -- the generalities just aren't cutting it anymore.
That means that some of the big names in the community might get left out, and some people might get left out. This happens. Heck, *I* might be one of the ones left out. You have to make sacrifices for progress in any direction, I'm okay with that.
Finally, I had high hopes for Khan's Dark Nations project at one point. If we can get rid of the ego plays, house politics and focus on the intercommunication and presentation of the community, that project might actually bear fruit.
Micro-Suggestion: I've been urging people privately to make these sort of decisions for ages now. Until something changes on the end of the community at large, I won't be doing a thing. The presentation of the VC to mundanes makes my life hard enough for me with people I know -- I do much better work by correcting the poor image of the community in the minds of the normal population.
If and when something changes I will be happy to function in some capacity beyond that. I'd be ecstatic to take part in debates online to work towards accepted definitions, agreeing on what aspects to present as community standards, etc. I'd be giddy to see the portions of the community decide what they really *want* from the world, from our interaction with each other, and I'd happily take part in making such informed goals a reality.
Right now, I'm just going to keep correcting the poor image our community presents the average person. It seems the most profitable thing both personally and collectively. If and when the situation changes, feel free to call me, but right now just getting accepting donors is hard enough without including all the other business that association with portions of the community brings on me.
Praise: There's a plethora of good (general) information out there to be found for those who are newly awakening, for one. Support groups aren't exactly lacking. We have a number of intelligent 'old hands' to educate the newbies, and the AVA, the only organisation I have any respect for anymore, has done a number of great surveys. The VVC has potential even if it falls somewhat short, Dark Nations *had* potential. We have all the elements in place to proceed towards any particular goal we might collectively decide on -- acceptance (or at least tolerance), medical research, even pushing some random agenda. We just don't seem to be able to agree on what we want.
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Response 153
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: There should be an all of the above for the Debilitating attribute question. There are so many problems that the illness with in the community cannot begin to be dismissed as the visible symptoms of the illness. Bigotry runs rampant. There are so called leaders who practice deception on a massive level, feeding their own egotism and narcissism. There are people in the community who blindly follow lies because those who do have the skills to lead with out incompetence and hypocrisy are indifferent to the community after having been treated with cruelty. The community grew so expansive and tried to accept all members that it forgot what and who real vampires really are. Blood fetishists, roll-players, and the delusional are accepted and encouraged to spread their own views. Young members of the community are lead in a perverse manner by people who are unstable and have backgrounds that should be being questioned. Money, sex, and drugs have found a place with in community activities. Spies are sent to watch people who were once founders of the system.
Macro-Suggestion: Abolish the system. Require that all future so called leaders refrain from personal gain in order to take a leadership role. Do not let delusional individuals participate. Keep vampirism to the vampires, and exclude anyone who is a blood-fetishist, roll player, and donors from participating.
Micro-Suggestion: As an individual I refuse to participate in the problem. I am not an active member of the community and will continue to passively protest the illness that is the so called vampire leadership. Occupy the Internet!!!
Praise: The only good thing the community has done in the last year is realize that there is a problem.
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Response 154
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: Plenty of vampires do not understand their actual condition. They out themselves, go over board with feeding, and use the 'taboo' of what they are as a badge of honor.
Macro-Suggestion: Mentor the younger vampires. The biggest problem on all sides is a lack of education.
Micro-Suggestion: I really do not have to do anything, I am what I am and through trial and error have learned to be discreet, and well in control of my feeding. If I see a fledgeling vampire I do what I can to teach and then leave them to fend for themselves.
Praise: It is good to network and know of each other.
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Response 155
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Plain old bad manners online. Personal attacks should not be made public.
Macro-Suggestion: Model good manners I believe is all that can be done.
Micro-Suggestion: I expect good manners from those around me and having high expectations is half the battle. I ignore bad manners. My distance is often all that needs to be done.
Praise: It is good to host discussion and even heated debate.
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Response 156
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: I myself identify as a real Vampyre, my biggest complaint about the community is the " Drama " and the Vampyres themselves fighting among their own kind, always trying to make others feel like they don't know what they are talking about. Other Vampyres trying to act Superior to other Vampyres. The community needs to pull together and stop pulling in opposite directions. Also Houses that want to cause problems with members from other houses, and just basic clashing among Vampyres instead of pulling together as kindred. We need Unity in our Community and bring back the old ways of Chivalry and Decorum.
Macro-Suggestion: Have community Meetings, let the Vampyre community be heard, we have a Voice. Elders need to step and take charge and try to eliminate all of this Drama buy finding Solutions to the complains of those in the community.
Micro-Suggestion: I can suggest meetings and try to gather members and others to come to community meetings, and work side by side with each other.
Praise: We all share the same { heritage } we are separate from the mundane community, and when we chose too we can get along. also we are diverse in many ways, as many beliefs and spirituality make up our community which we can share common grounds and goals in.
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Response 157
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: The lack of acceptance of Awakened, experienced, well-learned Solitary Vampires by those who affiliate with Covens or Houses causes me to retreat often. I consider myself violently independent, and due to this fact, have been isolated by those who prefer security in numbers. I also find the level of unacknowledged mental illness in our community alarming and depressing. Then of course, elitism and extremely egocentric behaviors round out my three main complaints.
Macro-Suggestion: I believe creating a common language through dialogue that acknowledges the spiritual and emotional aspects of Vampirism as valid is an essential task at this time for any outlet of the community. Many seem to believe that psi-vampires are inherently spiritually aware, while sang-vampires aren't. I find this rift disturbing and contributory toward the overall sense of isolation I personally experience.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to continue to practice as a Solitary, answering any and all questions posed by others-- the newly awakened, house-affiliated, curious mundane onlookers... the whole lot.
Praise: I am excited that there are so many new outlets for Vampires to come together and learn about each other's unique journey. I truly believe that time will solve the harshest aspects of my issues!!
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Response 158
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Just individuals who break community laws and give bad media. But it's those individuals and not the whole community.
Macro-Suggestion: If they are gonna fuck-up big, cut them off once. Like out of the community.
Micro-Suggestion: As a house father and elder, if they fuck-up big time or give my house or the community a bad name I send them packing and let the other houses/covens in my country know about it so they can be alert of that person. It's harsh but it works.
Praise: The fact that we can all stand together as a family and connect globaly and learn from of teach eachother. And that everyone is so willing to help eachother out. And that if needs be, we can be open about it so to not have "two" lives, because people are getting more accepting of it.
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Response 159
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: everyone wants to be better than everyone else and will do hateful things to prove it
Macro-Suggestion: try to be more helpful in groups and to each other
Micro-Suggestion: i plan to re open my group i have had for 15 years and hope for some unity
Praise: a few groups have held together and work good together
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Response 160
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Newcomers to the offline community are afraid to come to offline gatherings because they have a big chance of being judged or told that they do not belong. The community has a "I'm real, you're not" attitude towards everyone. Even people who agree with each others points of view doubt the other persons legitimacy. The community used to be welcoming, it is not anymore.
Macro-Suggestion: New offline groups should be formed without existing social structure as meet and greets to allow people to be welcomed in and meet others in the area.
Micro-Suggestion: I have tried to remedy these issues in the past and do not attempt to do so anymore.
Praise: The community has handled recent events that have cast a bad light on it very well.
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Response 161
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: The young seem very uneducated and being mislead by false information.
Macro-Suggestion: There needs to be a site with correct information on it that is EASY to find and should not have to search very hard to find the information.
Micro-Suggestion: Well when asked a question I will tell them the answer that I believe to be correct and help those who seem to be confused and were taught wrong by some stupid individual.
Praise: Nothing.
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Response 162
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: The demands made by certain members of the community for proof and when such proof cannot be provided (and it never can) that person's views and experiences are discredited. When the discredited person fights back, using history and reasonable logic, the demanding member becomes blatantly insulting and demeaning in an attempt to bully their opponents into submission. I, myself, have encountered this repeatedly from a particular individual, who had waged an active campaign to discredit me in multiple groups. This person even demanded that I prove my own transgenderism in blatant hypocrisy to her own. I know that I'm not the only one to suffer such belligerence at her hands, as she has been banned from many groups for her warlike pursuits in the name of atheism and the supremacy of science.
Macro-Suggestion: I believe that first a general and collective acceptance of people's experiences and beliefs should be established. I also feel that derogatory and insulting behavior should not be permitted. Should any exhibit behavior that is deemed hostile, then they should be reported to the group administrators, who should thoroughly investigate such claims before determining whether or not to ban the guilty person(s).
Micro-Suggestion: Individually, I try to temper any conflicts by mediating between the injured person(s) and the person(s) who had committed the injury. If reconciliation does not occur then active censor and/or banning would occur.
Praise: I feel that many of the administrators try their best to keep the peace and for that I am thankful. In most the groups I have belonged to, the admins have done an admirable job being impartial and vigilant observers. I am thankful to them because in all but a few cases, they interceded and calmed the heated arguments which had ensued. They are to be commended for this :D
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Response 163
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: I do not see anything wrong in our Vampire community, but I wish to apologise for not corresponding earlier on. I believe you are doing a tremendous job, and from my part, I will endeavour to devote more time in support of our Vampire community.
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Response 164
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 165
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: just some i have run into have this ego problem they think they are better than everyone else
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: it helps those who are trying to figure out what is going on with them that they are not alone
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Response 166
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: entrapment how some groups do it by having a inner circle that none of the group that no members are aware of it is a form of entrapment
Macro-Suggestion: first id start by making all voting of member out of a group or site voted with member in question present. second id also make it mandatory for member in question to bring in a outside none biased vote from any group as long as a admin and knows well of the rules prior to voting
Micro-Suggestion: suggestion doing away with debates in group reply's regardless of who it is from
Praise: what i do like about groups is that it educates and fosters acceptance of diversity
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Response 167
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Deception- though Egotism and incompetence also goes well. People pretending to be something they aren't, creating multiple profiles to carry on twisted fantasy lives. Not having a good grasp on reality and trying to push agendas.
Macro-Suggestion: Probably not a whole lot that can be done but just be on alert, be educated and careful about the information they freely give. Maybe sites can be selective if someone comes off as being a role player or a bit unhinged put them on probation or don't allow them access.
Micro-Suggestion: Mostly just keep to myself, careful about who I give personal information to and don't feed the trolls.
Praise: I believe there are a lot of highly talented and experienced people in the community that all in all keep things level headed. Call BS on those that need a reality check and can be resourceful and willing to help.
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Response 168
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: Though there are many upstanding members of the community, I do find that when dealing with the Vampire community at large, Ego is quite troublingly the reason that there are so many disagreements. One simply isn't willing to be anything but the best "most nifty amazing person ever, and by the gods you will all follow my instructions!"
Macro-Suggestion: Perhaps, it is time for people to understand the importance of being recognized as Elders of the community, and earn the right and respect that would support their Ego trips- as opposed to demanding it before they have done something that get recognized by the rest of the community.
Micro-Suggestion: The only thing I can do- add my two cents worth, and continue doing my own work in order to bring myself (and more importantly, my house) awareness, respect, and recognition for my hard work and talents. It's not good to just confront the people who feel they are justified in their own ego trip. That only serves to fuel a fire of insecurity burning well enough on it's own.
Praise: There are several ways the community has already set up a recognition process, even for Ronin. Perhaps it is time to start using it, and allowing the people doing work that is just, well done, and beneficial, to be recognized. Just understanding that they are being heard can have a big impact (in often times humbling ways) on all of the people trying to subjugate the community.
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Response 169
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Too much drama.
Macro-Suggestion: I have already remedied the situation through non-participation.
Micro-Suggestion: See above
Praise: The Vampire Community provides a social network of like- minded people.
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Response 170
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 171
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: We don't behave as kindred anymore . The strigori has made every attempt to alienate sanguines and the main voices in the spotlight seem to be more after fame then helping us as a whole. The community needs to find its strength together again and stop alienating their own.
Macro-Suggestion: Start working together as a whole and stop the elements trying to set up their own rule.
Micro-Suggestion: I have been opening myself more to the community at large
Praise: So far the best thing we have done is social outlets like online site. Communication is the first point to help change
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Response 172
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: First of all, I will complain that I could only pick one thing. I feel that Grandiosity and Narcissism are a huge problem with SOME (not all!) members of this community. On the other hand, I feel like the people of this community experience a lot of bigotry from the general public. How many times do we visit a website where people claim I'm a hybrid vampire, part werewolf, part dragon, part (insert your favorite here), etc. This makes the community look ridiculous. I think the public should be GENTLY educated, and would it be so hard to speak in terms the general public could understand? I hate to be the one saying many humans are stupid, but many ARE uneducated. And when you tell a person you're a Sanguine Vampire, very few people even know what you are talking about. And then, if they are interested enough to do research, they think you're crazy, mentally unstable, etc. Please know I am speaking out of! love and tolerance - I myself happen to only be a witch - not a wiccan, the old school my-great- grandmother-had-me-grinding-herbs-with-a- mortar-and-pestle-when-I-was-four-years-old kind of witch, or folk healer, if one wants to be well received by people who know nothing except the Hollywood representation (ie "bad press") My niece is a vampire, and my cousin's daughter is a vamp, and several young family members.
I DO think that the fact you have been and are still having people fill out questionaires show that you truly want to do something about how the general public receives your information. As for me? I get it, I truly do. I have many acquaintances that belong to your community, and of course family that do as well. I'm kind of taking the long way around this, but for example, when I try to explain to worried parents in my family/friends circle that their child/family member is NOT mentally ill, I have to deal with some of the (please forgive me, but I'm sure many will agree) pure crap that gets posted on some websites. I can't properly explain to my sister-in-law why her daughter shares blood with her boyfriend, and other things she sees as "off" when she is constantly exposed to the crap available on the internet when she does a search. Please remember, the only reason I'm sharing concerns here is that I DO know the difference between the lifestyle and the "fantasy crap! " that is out there. But to the uninformed, you guys are all the same - crazy, mixed up, mentally ill, etc. I fight hard when the occasion comes up, to put things into proper context, but I'm sure you can appreciate the difficulty I have if they have been to a fantasy/crap website, or reads the ever present "please come turn me" crap, or goes to a site that DOES NOT explain to the newbies about safety - in blood sharing or meeting kindred - I think my fight has less to do with this community, but more to do with the dangerous misinformation that winds its way through the internet.
I think the key here is vigilance - when vampire members or the people who love, understand, and support them comes across dangerous, or false information, I believe it is our duty to contact the website host, elders, or whatever they have resembling guidance at the website, and explain to them how they are harming the vampire community.
While it is important that the newer kindred and minors (in human years) learn that there are kindred out there to help and educate, I still feel the vamp community is still falling short when it comes to public education. I know how hard it is for me and my peer groups to overcome bigotry and hate, and I daresay it is even a bigger obstacle for my friends in the vampire community.
Macro-Suggestion: 1) Police the internet in our spare time, and seek to correct and diminish the misinformation that is out there - there's plenty for the vampire community and their friends to do! I've been doing it in my spare surfing time, I know it is hard to catch it all. 2) We need to make sure the CORRECT things are easier to find than the crap/fantasy/dangerous sites that threaten the true understanding of this community. Until the public is educated PROPERLY, we (and I say we, because I'm a huge supporter and friend) will continue to have the same problems. 3) Perhaps we need more websites designed for friends and family of vampire kindred - it has worked very well in my corner of the world. If that is something already in place, then disregard. I'm thinking along the lines of something that will stand out to the parent or relative that does a google search for more information.
Only when we reduce fear, can we begin to redce the bigotry and hatred.
Micro-Suggestion: I am already actively educating my family members and giving counsel to my young kindred/family members on how to handle situations as they come up. I am starting in my own backyard, but am perfectly willing to share my stories/efforts, etc.
Praise: I am very happy with the websites where the elders don't allow what I call "nonsense" talk, and make safety issues with forthrightness and educational information. I like the fact that the community is seeking input. First and foremost, I will always love the vampire community - I have many dear friends who are members, and they have enriched and educated me as a human being. The vampire community has many positive things to share with the world - I look forward to a time when people are more ready and willing to listen. I don't want my friends and loved ones to live in shadows, or pretend and act their way through life. I want them to be who they are, without the worry of condemnation. Please email me if you have any questions about anything I've mentioned.
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Response 173
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: I chose hypocrisy but I'd add my own option for elitism. I've watched groups like temple of the vampire, ordo strigoi vi, order of the aset ka, the darkborne tradition, and vampire nations concord proclaim their superiority to everyone else's claim of being a real vampire. Their elitist bullshit is crammed down everyone's throats and we're told to honor people like sebastiaan or luis marques like sheep. Do you know how ridiculous it sounds when these people say they aren't part of the ovc? They are just as much a part of the ovc as the sanguines and psys. You may not like them or they like you but make no bones about it they're part of the online vampire community if they're online and call themselves vampires! I don't care how you spell VAMPIRE VAMPYRE so grow up already!
Macro-Suggestion: They need to get over their attitudes and learn to live with others opinions. If I hear one more I'M AN ELITE VAMPIRE AND NOT LIKE THESE PEOPLE I'm gonna hurl.
Micro-Suggestion: I wanna champion tolerance for vampires with bipolar and schizophrenia. I'm tired of us being dumped on and cast out from groups. We have ideas and are vampires just like everyone else.
Praise: I'm glad not everyone in the ovc are like these groups. I respect the real leaders of the ovc who don't go around demanding everyone respect them or pay homege to what they did over a decade ago. What have you done lately but whine? NOTHING! that's right so SHUTUP!
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Response 174
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: There are simply too many people who have fictional expectations of vampires or want to be a vampire more than they are. Also, people are ignorant. They have misinformation and grandios ideas.
Macro-Suggestion: Generally, we need to educate and explain to other vampires.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to give helpful information and clear up misconceptions about vampires to all vampires I know.
Praise: I think that the majority of people in the communtiy are accepting and willing to help new members.
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Response 175
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: The biggest problem that has plagued the "real vampire" community since its inception is the ideal of unity. Often this idea of unity has been conflated with the concept of uniformity: that we must agree on what exactly a “real vampire” is so we can work together. All that usually ends up is pointless arguments about ownership of the term “vampire.” Even carefully constructed definitions of what constitutes a “real vampire” such as on the AVA and VVC websites basically say “here’s what it is but it’s not wholly applicable.” Shouldn’t a definition be, well, definitive?
Unity is also an unwanted aim as people enter the vampire community with a vast variety of circumstances that lead them there. Most people who come just want to feel special and belong to something. Others may have a deep spiritual connection to the vampire archetype or vampiric activities. Others feel they are dealing with a physical condition and just want to find answers and ways to cope. This is hardly an exhaustive list but represent common tropes within the community. It is senseless to aim for unity when the aims of the different groups are very different and often diametrically opposed.
Our self-portrayals continue to insure that we will not be taken seriously. The names, the aesthetics, and the beliefs of the representatives of the VVC, the representation of the most respected names in the community, suggest that the vast majority subscribe to what can be best described as a slurry of neo-Paganism and White Wolf. Critically thinking about your unusual circumstances is actively discouraged in favor of the instant and illusory gratification of “seeking your own truth.”
In addition, the members of the “vampire community” need to be cognizant of the level of truth of their claims. For example, if someone who believes in a metaphysical form of energy states it as a spiritual belief, there should be no want for challenge. However, if she claims it to be true in all scopes of reality, she should not complain when scrutiny is applied.
Macro-Suggestion: First of all, we need to cease perceiving ourselves as a community and more of a mosaic and a clearing house. The sole point of commonality within the community is the word “vampire” regardless of it being self-identification or mere association (eg. I do not consider myself a vampire but I do perceive a need to consume blood and the term vampire seems rather sticky for that scenario). Academics and our rational community leaders (as few and far between as they are) agree on this point. However, it is imperative for this point to be stressed at the forefront of all our “pan-vampire” sites for the sake of helping those who are entering the mosaic meet their needs as well as providing less ammunition for academics, media, and laypeople alike to make blanket conclusions.
Also, keep in mind that although the sangs, psis, empaths, etc share a close social proximity, this says nothing about the similarity of their experiences and it does not follow to conflate our experiences under the umbrella term “real vampire.”
A decentralization approach would insure that those who traverse the mosaic will get what they want out of it and the different sorts of “vampires” in the mosaic won’t step on each others’ toes. For starters, I would recommend that Voices of the Vampire Community change its name to Voices in the Vampire Mosaic as an honest reflection that we are not one but a compilation of many.
Micro-Suggestion: For several years, I have just worked within the framework of the current community setup. My approach is to interact with those who shared similar situations to mine and really disregard the rest as an intellectual curiosity at best. I have met and personally supported a few people and have contributed to sanguinarian efforts to compare medical data and look for commonalities (if any exist). With a preponderance of medical data we hope to translate this into scientific studies where we can get a better idea of the genesis of our perceived blood need and hopefully have greater alternatives of coping than the status quo.
Although a decentralization approach would be advantageous for all; the current climate makes it risky to extend dialogue with the more metaphysically oriented as distancing ourselves from that group (via rhetoric or separate spaces), even while working within the same network, increase our social capital with media or scientific authorities.
Also, I have entered a PhD program in Sociology. My main area of study will be social movements of identity and leisure groups with an emphasis on those empowered by the advent of the internet. Although I may not explicitly study the vampire mosaic, I am fairly confident my research can be applicable and can give insight on how we can be more effective in obtaining more favorable public perception of ourselves.
Praise: The collection of pre-internet information and artifacts on “real vampires” by Michelle Belanger, Vyrdolak, and others I cannot remember are very interesting to me as an academic.
I also applaud Merticus for his collaboration of data on “real vampires” as a good start on finding more about ourselves (although I suspect that on the medical matters he has hit the snag on getting a representative sample since we are so diverse; which is not an issue when it comes to filling out surveys). In addition, the VCA is a) major resource in coding media, science, and public sentiment (and how they interact with vampire self-portrayal
A small group of honest to goodness sanguinarians has endeavored to get closer to a greater collection of medical data as a starting point for collaboration with outside scientific authorities.
In short, we are good at collecting data. However, the application of information as well as the framework of our group is fundamentally flawed.
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Response 176
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Little people get themselves known in the community by pulling others down, not building them up, and then they think since they are known, that they should have some asmount of power or glory. And when or if they don't get it, they go all nasty and obnoxious on everybody. Else they just don't have any manners in the first place.
Macro-Suggestion: Not feed into their d/ill/disillusions. Ignore then if possible, on message boards, on websites, in chat rooms. Just ignore them. Don't link to their pages or profiles, don't put them on (or just take them off) your friends' lists, etc. They can shout all they want, but if there's nobody to hear them with their head stuck down a well, they won't get listened to. Encourage other people to ignore them in the above ways too.
Micro-Suggestion: I will do what I've done all along: Ignore them myself. :>
Praise: I think it's developing a good networking system. For USA groups and vamps as well those in other countries. The cross-pollination of thoughts and ideas is good. Let's see more of that in more places in the future. Hopefully.
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Response 177
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 178
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Pessimism
Complaint: The need to be right over everyone else about what is or is not a vampire is detrimental to the community. Splitting hairs over who has been around the longest, who does the most, who looks the part should be of little consequence. No single person, NOR collaborative group has the right to decide what is or is not a vampire but rather more should be encouraged to share, free of belittlement, what it means to them and be able to look to others of similar (not exact) mindset for support. Additionally, more community members should be encouraging positive endeavors rather than tearing them down before giving them a chance to come to fruition and community members should spend more time overall, looking for ways to affect good rather than troll sites and projects seeking things to criticize.
Macro-Suggestion: The community at large - first look at other community members and their endeavors objectively, then look for the positive before seeking out the errors, then give praise where it is due BEFORE dishing out criticism and when dishing out criticism, it should be privately since the goal is actually to help the individual do better and not to make a spectacle of the situation. If that doesn't work, get off one's high horse and try to do something similar, the way you feel it ought to be done.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to lead by example. Praising the positive and keeping the criticism out of public forums, to hopefully be taken more seriously by the person in question and hopefully inspire more people to live their lives, not shrouded by negativity.
Praise: There are several groups within who are dedicated to nurturing and educating those who need guidance. Additionally, these seem groups seem to encourage diversity and seek to learn something from everyone rather than attempt to force everyone into a box or definition and they are setting positive examples by allowing themselves to be seen by the greater population doing good for their areas and portraying vampires, occultists, energists, etc. in a positive light.
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Response 179
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Why do we have a Vampire Community News, Real Vampire News, Vampires/Vampyres News, or True Vampire News? since when did the VC need a CNN, ABC, CBS, or FOX equivalent? People are so busy duplicating each other that they aren't offering anything important. #Newsflash# opinion pieces aren't news they are editorials so why not call yourself Real Vampire Editorials? Interviews belong in magazines so why not call yourself Real Vampire Magazine? Do you see the Graveyard Press going by Graveyard Press News? I miss the organic or neighborly feel of the old VC. The sense of discovery. I remember the first time I stumbled across a sang who was going to my school on one of the old tripod sites. I thought I had won the lottery!
Macro-Suggestion: Times are a changing so I guess nothing. I just have to wonder what happens when real vampires become as mainstream as goths. Then what?
Micro-Suggestion: The same things I've been doing and hope it helps someone.
Praise: I met my donor who became my lover and mother of our two children because of the VC. This was the best thing that ever happened to me and why I've stuck around to help others. As strange as it sounds I feel guilty and kinda like I owe the VC for what it brought me.
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Response 180
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: nothing
Macro-Suggestion: i need to under satnd my powers more
Micro-Suggestion: help
Praise: i dont know enuf bout myself or other vaps to comprehend
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Response 181
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: I think it's good that there are communities where you can find support and help When it is needed. they are friendly to you and live with you. also become a good deal with the media occasionally register on the site
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Response 182
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Fakes, role players . Liars some egos are not healthy
Macro-Suggestion: people need to go a step back, and meet in person, figure out who the fakes are and keep the role players out of the equation especially with people writing the slanted garbage , that is pro psi and magik not pro vampire,. kill the ovc and the vvc, go to square one people should realize that the community has been around longer than the internet or the nyc lifestylers group. they are only part of the upper strata not quite underground
Micro-Suggestion: i plan to push my group a little more and we plan to consolidate the west coast, and make it separate from the ovc etc. standards will be set
Praise: i am not sure whats right, people need to talk on the phone more, we talked on the phone more in the 80's now that we have free domestic calling etc we should be doing it more. people need to be verified at minimum that they are real people and not a bunch of fake profiles
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Response 183
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: I don't understand why egotism and narcissism were split--they are similar enough and both cause the same problem in the community: the inability to look past oneself for the greater good, the need to have ten million projects that accomplish the same thing because none of the project leads are willing to work together, the need for some sort of tiered heirarchy cribbed from RPG handbooks and the like because people can't generate respect through their own deeds, the unwillingness to cooperate for everyone's benefit because people want to make sure everyone knows they did this great thing.
If people were willing to contribute to existing projects and support existing goals without the pressing need to be in control of all stages of the project, the community would be in better shape.
Macro-Suggestion: How should we fix this? Ignore the bitches and keep on keeping on. Ignore the people who don't contribute. And fuck the people who demand participation on their own terms. These people need to realize that they are just a tiny part of the greater whole, and the greater whole neither expects nor demands anything from them, and there will never be a guarantee of any standing ovations or back pats for any output they provide.
And the whole never, ever, ever has a leader. Not even the VVC, because they're not a governing body, and says so in their charter.
Micro-Suggestion: I think the community's inundated with navel-gazing, sociological, egotistical nonsense masquerading as knowledgable writing. I plan to contribute more content of substance. For example, there are few guides on how to run a public group about vampirism that isn't a house or whatever. I happen to run one. So why not describe the process so someone else has a guide?
Praise: ...the community's still around and hasn't completely imploded yet? :P
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Response 184
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: 1. People who base their beliefs/religion on novels. Real life vampires do not sparkle or turn into bats. 2. Pretentious "vampires" who like to go to goth clubs and show off their fangs while thinking they're the next incarnation of Vlad Tepes.
Macro-Suggestion: Reality needs to be outlined, as does maturity. I don't call myself a vampire anymore BECAUSE of 17 year old emo kids and Twilight-tards, and then the nutjubs who believe they're incarnated... no.
Micro-Suggestion Box: Murder?
Praise Box: This isn't a community, and this is the most fucking stupid thing I've ever read.
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Response 185
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I find it sad, and really quite hurtful that there is a lack of greeting among us. this can be a lonely enough path to walk, there is not need for seeming indifference or, worse yet, out-right rudeness. And whether or not we agree with one another on various topics, does not mean that we cannot be civil and courteous to each other. In addition to showing a grace to all of those within the Community, it would show to the rest of the world that we are not the monsters that some claim us to be.
Macro-Suggestion: that said, I have found one or two websites that are written well, and encourage some of what I mention. But, not being able to meet with any of those members of the Community, I have no way of knowing if they do as they, themselves, advise. This is really something that each individual member of the Vampire Community should be doing; be the example that others can follow! Each of us, is as an ambassador of the Vampire Community, whether we realise it or not. And those around us, both locally and internationally, watsh every little thing we do! therefore, everything we do is going to reflect, for good or ill, upon the Community as a whole. I know that this is sad, and should not be so, but it is human nature to do so. Have not we, at one point or another done something of the kind>We cannot judge...then we would be no better than those who point at us and called us monsters and/or evil.
Micro-Suggestion: I strive, in every aspect of my llife, both as a Vampire and as an individual living in the world, as gracefully as possible. This not not only in my carriage, or way of moving, but in my speech, but also my actions and reactions towards and with others. I strive to be the best that I am capable of, with grace, and deportment.
Praise: I see so much potential! Many are making such great and inventive ways of doing the very things I have mentioned to better the view the world has of our Community. We need more of this!
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Response 186
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: I quit posting because I was disgusted with the way people were acting and being treated. If you stood up for someone you were ridiculed by one group and praised by the next. If the mod kicked out troublemakers they caused even more trouble. If you called someone out on their crazy ideas you were told you were being mean. The pity me crowd needs to dislodge from their mother's tit and go elsewhere.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion: Prove to me why I should return to the VC.
Praise: I believe in giving credit where it's deserved and without the AVA we'd still be studied as a cult. The VEWRS surveys put real vampires on the map for researchers like Joe Laycock and DJ Williams. The number of books with accurate reporting of their research has replaced the books written in the 1990's. Their accomplishments would rank at the top of my list of anything that has gone on in the VC since like 2000.
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Response 187
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 188
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Noone can agree on simple things. There is just way to much disagreement within the community. I know people will disagree but in order to solve the problem(s) at hand there has to be compromise and there isn't any. Honestly you do not want to know my full opinion on this matter.
Macro-Suggestion: I think one way to help with all the disagreements is to have each house, group etc. Elect one or two people to speak for that house, group, etc. and then do their own poll/vote on any matter and then those people along with those of us that are not apart of any house, group, or etc meet and discuss what the best why to handle certain things. As of right now, everyone has something to say. If we narrow down the amount of people I think it would be a littl bit easier to decide onto handle things.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: As of right now the only that I can see that is functional within the community is this right here. Allowing us to speak without being judge about what we say or feel about something.
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Response 189
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: That we are attempting to come together as a community instead of hiding from eacother
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Response 190
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Idiots who "decide to be a hybrid vampire" and make serious sanguinarians want to facepalm a wall.
Macro-Suggestion: Stop humoring idiots.
Micro-Suggestion: Show as little tolerance for self delusional idiots as possible.
Praise: New forums are trying to compile and compare personal medical information in an active effort to find an explanation that does not include words that invoke an eye roll in the average PHD.
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Response 191
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: Individuals tend to be so dark there is such a veer away from light or anything associated with this, that many feel excluded or are unable to break in to new groups. It is therefore hard for others to understand what vampire groups stand for, and who we are
Macro-Suggestion: There should be websites / forums where elders of the community are able to accept, lead by example and help others (even non vampires) to show to the vampire community that new ideas, thoughts and experiences are not necessarily a threat.
Micro-Suggestion: I would like to meet vampires and non vampires alike to bring together in this type of forum.
Praise: Members of the vampire community do still do outreach work, and this helps break down assumptions both from the OVC and Non OVC communities, generating understanding.
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Response 192
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Not enough of them.
Macro-Suggestion: Make it easier to find others.
Micro-Suggestion: Try to find someone.
Praise: Im not sure.
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Response 193
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: the quality of knowledge about vampires should be improved right away. vampirewebsite.net should be taken down. i know a young girl who swears she's infected with the vampire virus and no matter how much i tell her that virus theory isn't true she doesn't believe me because of that website
Macro-Suggestion: the groups should work together and not try to be their own islands
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: the only good thing to praise is we aren't all fighting over who the most legitimate type of vampire is. the psi-sang wars were a shameful chapter in our history
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Response 194
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 195
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: They different viewing of awakened vampires and how they try not to stand out but those that do stand out are supposedly fakes is there a way of explaining this more in detail
Macro-Suggestion: N/a
Micro-Suggestion: N/a
Praise: That those of us that have awakened go through complications in life and how to fit in...I agree with that one the most
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Response 196
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: You will get these people that just enoy the crap out of you.(ex.) They might come in saying something like this: I'm not sure weather I am a vampire or not.Of course you can't quite tell if some one is... especially online, so you answer it the best you can. Since you didn't say that they were a vampire, they will go on and on and on."Well, I can never stop thinking of vampires", or," well the sunlight burns my eyes, and i'm sensitive to the sun," or," well I love blood, can't stop thinking about it."They just won't stop unless they get banned, or you tell them that they are a vampire. But then again, every VC runs into at least one of those. And it's also annoying when you run into those people who will just want to know where you live and repeatedly email you the question.
Macro-Suggestion: The people of the community I am part of should be blunt with the people who carry themselves that way in the VC.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to just simply ignore those requests in the future.
Praise: The VC I am involved with is resourceful,beneficial, and even carries itself like a family. If you are new,we will answer any questions that we can about vampirism.
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Response 197
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Transgenderism, homosexuality and religion have nothing to do with being a vampire! Why are we so afraid of this vocal minority who use the OVC to further their personal equality agendas? If you want to sell someone on the plight of transgendered people or bullying because you're in a same sex relationship then go do it with the xtians or REAL bigots. This doesn't mean I hang around the OVC to listen to militant atheists gang up on xtians or pagans either! Vampires don't give a flying fuck what you do or believe until you start acting like a SPECIAL SNOWFLAKE. You're no better than african americans begging for handouts because of slavery. You're probably the same people who collect disability or extended unemployment like the bunch of degenerate parasites I have to wait on at the grocery store while they sort their EBT food stamps. Get over yourselves already and stop making excuses for your wasted lives!
Macro-Suggestion: Anyone who uses their gender or sexuality as an excuse to act like an asshole or tries to force their religious beliefs !or the lack of! on others should be immediately banned from the OVC.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: This survey? Seriously I'm tired of seeing this shit in the OVC.
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Response 198
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: 1. THE DAMN ENERGY TROLLS!!!!!!!!!!!!! I know some energy vampires who troll on a regular basis... They write mean comments that offend you or just don't make any frickin' sense! It is annoying as hell.
Macro-Suggestion: Make a "spam box" like the comment box, only have it serve as a place where energy (as well as other types) trolls can leave their darn comments filled with sarcasm, stupidity, cruelty, nonsense, or bullshit.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan on removing crap comments from my profile page. As annoying it is to have to patrol the comment section of my profile page, I don't want to look like a tattle tale.
Praise: 1. I love how we are all family (and put up with each other so well). :P
2. Even I who had my hybrid awakenings a long time ago, have found useful advice and answers to some questions of mine.
3. The V community understands me! :D It is so awesome to know that I am not a freak of nature and am not going to hell for things that I cannot control.
4. Keep up the good work guys, me and my dear stuffed kitty love you!
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Response 199
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: We have people new to the community who are not readily accepted and way too many cliques. Make people seem unwelcome. Another problem is apathy in large fetish groups.
Macro-Suggestion: become more accepting, increase participation.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: I think it's great, the only thing I hate is the apathy
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Response 200
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: It is difficult to find people in the vampire community who are real (not posers, etc) and local. While I have not attended too many events, and some people were friendly, overall, there was a lack of really welcoming and inviting the newcomers to feel 'at home.' Also, events on a Sunday or weekday evening make it difficult for others who need to travel and go to work the next day. Perhaps have meeting on a Friday or Saturday evening once in a while, or earlier on a Sunday would help.
Macro-Suggestion: Make it easier to find you in real time whether its on meetup.com or some other site. Establish people who are inherently friendly and welcoming to make it a point to say hello to newcomers and perhaps introduce them to a few people as a start.
Micro-Suggestion: After finding you, and being able to travel to you, if I attended regularly, I would be happy to welcome newcomers. I have done this before. This really helps people want to come back.
Praise: I am not in touch with the Vampire Community at this time. However, my thoughts on the matter anyway is that it is important for the Vampire Community to be there for those who need it.
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Response 201
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: vampire community has made an extra-ordinary improvement in terms of "openness" and "education of newly awakened" but there are some problems that still remain so far.
1.no "proper" way to define the word "vampire".
2.clashing of beliefs: now this is regular .it's very often that we see two persons who hardly know each other get involved in fight over individual belief of what makes them a vampire. again, this is linked to my first point .
3. egotism: it's very often that we see "i am right and every one else is wrong " attitude. i don't know why but people aren't ready to "accept" new ideas. they don't have to "embrace" it if they don't want to but what's wrong in listening?
in my opinion it all comes back to one point .... "what is a vampire?" a simple question with difficult answer.
Macro-Suggestion: now this one is difficult . what shall we do to bring them under one roof? few believe in spiritual vampirism , others in pure genetics or like me (li'l bit of both). i think ( i am not sure if i am right ) but we should start "listening". we should stay "open" for new ideas. moreover, try to answer the question. (what makes us a vampire?) because it might seem a simple question but deep down we all know that it is the root of all conflicts. i think vvc can play a significant role in this matter.
Micro-Suggestion: I am planning to start a v.c in India. IVA and IOA(indian otherkin alliance). i am at first trying to "unite" vampires as well as trying to "listen" . trying to spread awareness about "real" vampirism.
Praise: 1.people are helpful .they not just encourage v.c(s) from new places but help them grow. vampire global development support network is an example of this effort.
2.effort: people are making effort for a world wide v.c. VVC translation project is an example. it is also a great step for answering "the question".and surely projects like this must be encouraged.
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Response 202
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: not knowing or possibly understanding that there are either vamps out there in the world or on line that have visual or physical imparements that either limit their involvement with either on line communities and events or actual off line events and or gatherings that can and or do limit the vampire(s) involvement with their own and other community / communities. difficulties either with or finding locations of current houses that the prospective vampire can browse and or look over to find out if they wish to apply or join a specific house or community can be very disappointing when a blind or handicapped individual either can not or is not able to find specific information on joining in or contributing to their house or community in events or gatherings.
Macro-Suggestion: the vampire community should be willing to assist those with limitations with physical or visual limitations in the best of their ability in either directing someone to the information that they wish and or have links on how to contact specific houses and or directors of that house or cumminity gathering or project. true it is or would be the responsibility of the person that is wishing to get the information or directions on how to do something or get somewhere and not the responsibility of the house or group / community to supply these individuals with transportation or funds to do such, it should be up to the person wishing to follow through with the desire to do so on their own. but having the means on how to accomplish the desire to acheive their desires and or goals should be what makes the vampire house or community a better part of their community or house in striving to assist those in need fo the information.
Micro-Suggestion: if I am able to I am willing to off suggestions to or how to go about making web sites and or links that would assist in getting or obtaining information for specific causes or goals in the vampire community for instance I am blind myself, and some links on various vampire web sites are either graphic representations of pictures of what someone with sight can click upon for what they wish to do or go. but those that have no sight and can not understand what a picture is due to the simple fact that most screen reading programs / software out there does not say that it is a picture of a skull or click on teh fangs to enter. when the picture may be of a skull or fangs but to the blind person it would just show up as the following"graphic 337 or graphic 4093" it will have no actual meaning unless either embeded information states that it is a skull picture or lettering of some sort or text only version to have links upon. many non-vampire related sites offer audio links to join instead of pictures to write to join and other sites will have text only links that allow me to click upon to enter or join or find things. these are things I will or am willing to assist others in accomplishing mostly because I don't have the computer know how to accomplish changing pictures to text format buttons.
Praise: there are quite allot of sites that have not been in the past and have assisted many that are awakening and or coming out of the coffin every day and every night. quite allot are informative and helpful, even some of the RPG's can be helpful of a sort but unless they carry things to excess that is. other things that are terrific are sites like Shadowlore and or Sanguinarious.org have helped me in the past and currently and I belive that there are so many other web sites that are out there that can be made to be even more helpful if people only knew of them.
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Response 203
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 204
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I've chosen "none of the above" because "other" wasn't an option. I see it as more of a combination of factors... Egotism, Grandiosity/Narcissism (which would include Egotism) and Indifference... It runs through all levels whether newcomer or old timer... Add to this the pessimism and "the 3 As of the internet" (arrogance, anonymity and attitude) create the fractitious nature of the vampire community both online and off...
Macro-Suggestion: I've just started to build my own local community back up in a way that is more... fair minded... than the former council... It has not stopped the pessimists from being pessimists nor the liars from telling lies, however, it HAS afforded a modicum of movement in a positive manner, aiding not only the vampire community, itself, but also the Greater New Orleans area too.
Micro-Suggestion: I continue, personally, to move forward doing goals that are more globally oriented as opposed to just doing things for the vampire community...
Praise: The fact that there IS an organization out there, which is NOT a "body politic/governing body" which allows the Elders/Leaders of the community to continue to maintain open communications (even if we do have to route everything through intermediaries to do so... Not everyone speaks/writes well to or with each other... That is just human nature...)
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Response 205
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: One cannot choose simply one of the aspects listen. There are a combination that have determented the community. Not one of those options truly sumerises the real problem, which is in essence a detachment from the waking world and a complete UN-grounding of perception. If the community wishes to escape stereotypes and negative public image, then it needs to emphasize on utility more than fantasy. The world respects utility, where as they see fantasy with a lack of utility as laziness and immaturity. There are plenty of ways Vampyrism can be seen as functional to those who wear the mantle, perhaps not to some, but those intelligent enough to see the potential will find a way to forge a better construct of the gifts given. I think it's time to break out of the "condition" of weakness placed on us long ago, and start recreating the idea, to form a new image and a new idea. One without lacking, or wounds, or starting us out as broken beings. Thats utter bullshit honestly. Thats like wanting a terminal illness because it's "cool" it's insulting and honestly detrimental to health and sanity. Let us instead reimagine the "Vampyre" if one were so insistant on even keeping the term, into one that works with energies, and is able to take in and project those energies at will. Who have learned to master the esscences of life, not clinging to weaknesses and pity and self limitation. Not even relying on a predatorial nature, as predators rely on their prey to survive. No let us be TRULY powerful, but not allowing ourselves weaknesses, but instead forging forwards to become masters of ourselves, our spirits, and our environments. For THAT is the only path to Immortality that I see at this time. It is that, or ultimately the death of the entire community.
Macro-Suggestion: ^ See Above
Micro-Suggestion: I am already trying to take the actions I described above. All I can do is share my views with others within the community and explain from this viewpoint to those outside of it, and hope it might effect change from both.
Praise: The Community itself, loyalty, family. These attributes were not always present, especially in the 90's when there was rampant elitism and very closed minds and herd mentality. Not to say those don't exsist today, but the very existence of this site is a testament to broadened horizons and an evolving perception.
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Response 206
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: We seem to be, as a group, very intolerant of each other.
Macro-Suggestion: I think if the more public of our members show more tolerance and acceptance of others it would be a good start. Also, as much education as possible might help. Or we may just have to admit that we're really human and well- most humans really suck at tolerance of anything out of their immediate experience.
Micro-Suggestion: Every time I notice myself being judgemental and "elitist", I try to remember that karma is a bitch. If I can act more mature, it will hopefully rub off on others.
Praise: I've had the opportunity to meet a few of our more public figures and appreciate how they tried to be approachable.
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Response 207
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: The vampire community really has no good way of contacting eachother or networking. Granted people like Sanguinarius and Lono (and many, many others) have made great strides to creating an online community there are very few resources available for those who just want to meet up with other vamps. I have to assume that vamps are at least as big a percentage as homosexuals (who are a fairly universal minority) which is generally considered to be 1-4% of the population. That means that there are between 70290000 and 281160000 vamps out there. In my city of over one million people I've run across about a dozen, but never through any formal connection. Personally, I'd like to see even 1% of vampires out there looking to make connections.
Macro-Suggestion: Go make connections with other vamps, damnit! :)
Micro-Suggestion: I'm constantly looking for people online and offline to try and create a vampire network.
Praise: The vampiric community has made great strides in their attempts to "come out of the coffin" as it is said. Vampirism is becoming accepted (at least among vampires) and that's fantastic. I struggled with identity for years before I came across support resources and found a home and identity in the community.
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Response 208
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: Why can I only choose one of the points listed under 'most debilitating vampire community attribute'?
Anyways. To be short and concise for once: The OVC is a horde of walking, talking, ego-obsessed retards (even those with above-average intellect qualify for 'retard' in this aspect). It is more important to be seen/heard "as a vampire" rather than actually doing research on what vampirism actually is. Rather than combining efforts and coming out of one's own psychological shadow in order to do so, the proud and mighty folk of the OVC would rather blabber and blather on bad TV shows. Rather than actually taking their heads out of their asses, people prefer to 'write', for lack of a better term (although 'doodle' would be fitting, too), "articles" (again, for lack of a better term) - which are not articles at all but rather a form of drama the OVC has honed to an artform.
The VVC is a prime example for this. Instead of being a collective which could actually move things forward, a place to exchange ideas and gather research, it's a bunch of whining retards, one more idiotic than the other, who prefer to 'discuss' their own personal feelings towards other members and how awesome they are and how un-awesome everyone else is. Also - why on earth are certain people chosen for membership in that most beloved elitist club? I still can't understand why anyone would have chosen me, but seriously - these days, it's even harder than before to know who's actually vampiric and who is just going through puberty all over again.
People who think themselves something important - often impotent in all other regards of their life - in the OVC like to use words; that is okay, I like to use words, too, and far be it from me to tell people not to use them. However, within the OVC, words are, amazingly enough, never used *precisely*. It's all a big waaaaaaah-waaaaaaah-waaaaaaaaaah-waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. Vague language. Words are redefined every two weeks or so (after all, we must be all-inclusive per definitionem and cannot bear to leave people who "feed off music", for example, stand at the door of our awesome club of mythical creatures with teeth!), battle-lines are re-drawn every three weeks or so. What is acceptable to the OVC and its Elite - yes, VVC, I am looking at you, and I am consciously excluding myself from that club atm - has nothing whatsoever to do with the actual needs of actual vampires. It has more to do with the personal egos of its 'masters' - and their unfortunately existent and VERY ! PRONOUNCED need to tell fucking everyone about their awesomeness and the awesomeness of vampires. Yes, the fucking term 'online' is in the name, and nothing else would have to be expected of a group who formed around the concept of whining to other people online and 'writing' about one's experiences in order to establish oneself as someone 'important' and reliable (..."I suck inspiration!"; I did mention all-inclusive, but did I mention stark raving mad?). Still.
Macro-Suggestion: Either collective suicide or we choose someone to slit the throats of all the people who use the term 'vampire'/'vampiric' when referring to themselves in all seriousness. Alternatively, guns can be used.
Micro-Suggestion: Staying away from the madness. Nothing else seems to help, and I am sure as hell not going to complicate my life as of now even more by talking to "vampires". Only makes me mad.
Praise: lol
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Response 209
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: I believe some of these individuals are doing it to look kewl and are therefore not real, as its gone mainstream w ..Twilight and other fan bases even chidren are saying they aare vampires..there should be ethics and a way of enforcing codes of conduct on all webs,meetupps,gatherings,blogs and or meetup groups..as a real sanguinarian i would love to see a community that follows protocol and enriches one anothers lifestyles..
Macro-Suggestion: The above stated should have a code of conduct and a leader and administrter to enforce laws of the sanguinarian community. There shouls be respect for anonymity and no judgement from within on a single individual unless he breaks the codes and orders of conduct..then they should be a community vote as to whether this individual gets to stay n the community..Blocking them from other groups if possible by having heads of administration keep records of those who are guilty of said behavior..Outing them will give the community a chance to grow along lines of intefgrity and fellowship would be more appealling..
Micro-Suggestion: I will adhere to any codes of conduct asked of myself as an entitiy and abide by the community in good stading..I will help support the community by being vigilant and reporting any offensive behaviour or blasting of another member..rules of conduct should caryy limitations to join any other groups by way of a collective hive that stays in contact with each others adminstrater..I therefore give my allegiance to the rules,codes of conduct and anser to any head of group or moderater..this will keep myself in good standing and be respected by my peers, this will ensure the changes looked for in any community..
Praise: Right now i belong to gothic in spirit and the group moderaters are very sanguine and of integrity and i do not see this group as doing anyhting but following the codes of conduct so far as Ive only been a member for awile..but on fetlife i have yet to establish myself bacause Im new there as well I think I need suggestions as to a more formal sanguinarian community in which we have a closer relationship with those who are real vampyres...
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Response 210
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Indifference
Complaint: Just how damn easy it is for a group of folks who always complain about discrimination on the outside world to drag it into this one!
Macro-Suggestion: Just make a damn effort to remember that no 2 awakenings are the same, therefore no 2 vamps are the same!
Micro-Suggestion: I've been doing it.
Praise: I am proudest the most at how fast the response is when one of our own is in need.
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Response 211
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: There's often an ego that seems somehow misplaced, and is usually inflated by the decision (whether conscious or not) that others who engage in similar behaviour are far worse than the individual who is having the belief, despite them doing the same thing (usually in a slightly different light or arena). Because of this inability to see beyond oneself and have a greater compassion and/or understanding of one's fellows, there is no cohesion, no sense of true friendship or camaraderie any longer within the community.
Macro-Suggestion: Everyone should really take a step back and understand that we are all people with faults, and work to educate one another and relate to others, not simply declare any one as just wrong, stupid, or fail out of hand. Explain different perspectives in a calm and rational manner, not attacking one another from the position of a high horse that in relation to the high horse of the other being attacked makes it look like a boffer standoff atop two isolated pillars. Chances are in that scenario, both parties get toppled to the ground from their own actions.
Micro-Suggestion: I will try to spend less time avoiding the OVC (and the VC), and hopefully by engaging in well-thought, well-rounded, and inclusive conversation can help others to see different perspectives outside of themselves and come together on more common understandings.
Praise: The VC has more information and support available now than possibly any other year that I have been involved. There are also more people willing to take us, and the concepts that we operate under, seriously. This to me is an amazing opportunity and a grand thing that we should be able to put aside petty differences and come together to enable us to better both our position, but also our understanding of ourselves and others.
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Response 212
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: Some people still don't tell the truth.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion: always be truthful
Praise: people who don't laugh at me for being different..
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Response 213
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: It has been my experience that ALMOST 100% (I haven't met each and every one, so I can't say 100% for certain) of these so-called "vampires" are FAKE, and too self-absorbed in their fantasy to realise all they are doing is damaging the reputations of any possible TRUE vampires still existing today. These selfish, immature, children need to grow up and realise that it's OK to pretend when you're still little, but pretending as an adult is akin to the old fable of the Boy Who Cried Wolf.
Macro-Suggestion: Look into REAL vampires; how they were, what they were--and then force all of the fakers (again, I'm not even willing to believe that the entire community is fake; but far too much of them are) to realise that they emulate pop culture's ideas of the vampire, as opposed to the actual legends and stories.
Micro-Suggestion: Find a way to word my complaints in a less accusatory fashion.
Praise: Groups such as the "Vampire Community" that are, at least mostly, populated by immature people with an overactive imagination deter REAL vampires from preying on innocent people.
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Response 214
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: We are all part of a wonderful community with very smart people so really I have nothing bad to say.
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Response 215
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: What really bothers me is vampires who treat their human donaters as if they own them and that absolutly no effects will be had by the humans except maybe some exaustion. I know from personal experiance that it can a very high emotional effect on them. I for one prefer to take the energy from my host through psychic means (mostley because I cant find another type of doner). When I take energy from someone I tend to feed off of sexual energy and in turn they become attached to me. More so then if we had intercourse. More vampires need to be aware of their host's. Also, I swear that nobody knows about the chakras and how to control one section or type of energy. I have taught myself to take energy that my host is particularly abbundent in. Her root chakra is very strong and by taking some I in turn am balancing her. Energy exchange can be beneficial to both parties.
Macro-Suggestion: Chakras Chakras Chakras! Learn about them and your life will be much easier!
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: Willingness to help
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Response 216
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: There are too many people who are Elitist who will bash a new person who identified themselves as a vampire or a young person who identifies themselves as a vampire without reason
Macro-Suggestion: The Website should give a warning to those who are Elietist or act like elitists if they are warned more than 3 times they should be banned from the site permanently
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to help those who just discoverd them selves or who want to learn about vampires
Praise: everything cool so far
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Response 217
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Bigotry
Complaint: Vampires who claim that they are not human, and in some way say they are more important than humans.
Macro-Suggestion: Kick out anyone who makes rediculous claims, perhaps a RPer branding system e.g. a badge that they must display on their profile.
Micro-Suggestion: Correct the bigoted vamps and remind them that they are not above humans regardless of belief.
Praise: How connected we are, and how there is no indifference towards race, sexuality or religion.
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Response 218
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypochondria
Complaint: People who know next to nothing, but claim to know something. Or those that attribute common every day illnesses to vamprism.
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 219
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: After being involved in the community for several years now, and seeing the ebb and flow of the community and it's habits,
I have a few things that I feel are the key issues with the community:
1) The VCMB.
Out of any website forum in the OVC, I have found the most evidence of group-think, manipulation, condemnation, and double-standards in favor of those who reside in the "inner circle" to be present here. I feel this is one of the most overlooked sources of influence, furthermore, on the problems that our community faces as a whole. The prevalent behaviors that exist in this forum tend towards using one's vampiric nature to justify abhorrent and disgusting behaviors towards others (vampire and non-vampire alike). These behaviors include metaphysical (energetic) behavior, and practical behavior such as verbal interaction. Those who are newly awakened that look to the VCMB for help are typically ripped apart, degraded, and judged. This is dangerous for two reasons: 1) It teaches those who are newly awakened and looking for help that this must be what must be dealt with in order to evolve as a vampiric individual; 2) It teaches the newly awakened some of the most destructiv! e forms of behavior that they carry with them for the rest of their lives, as the first few years after awakening is the most impressionable.
Since leaving, I have been told many things on how to exactly deal with this issue; 1) This is how it must be, so that the "bad vampires" have some place to go; 2) Been told the issue would be dealt with, and then it was completely ignored; 3) Those who are "good vampires at heart" will realize eventually that this is not okay and will leave of their own accord; 4) There is nothing that can be done about this; 5) That's just how it is there, don't worry about it; 6) It's been attempted to deal with it before, and it failed.
I find these reasons to be excuses. If the community, in all of their comments about right and wrong, really cared about this situation, they would organize and come together to stop this behavior, this problem, and call out the issue loud and clear. This was done with Jonathon Sharkey - it could feasibly be done with the VCMB, and any other forum or place on the internet that adheres to similar routine behavior. It is a repository for negativity, backlash, fear-mongering, vengeance, and disregard for any personal responsibility one has to others and to the community. Newly-awakened vampires fall prey to this behavior every day, as well as seasoned vampires. Many are too afraid to speak out against the "1%", if you will, of that forum. This survey wanted to know the truth, and so it was my responsibility to respond.
2) Bickering
I often see people say, "Eat a bowl of popcorn, sit back, enjoy the show" in reference to drama. Part of what fuels the behavior of drama-starting has to do with those who are willing to validate its presence by acknowledging it, going so far as to enjoy watching it unfold. This, in my opinion, is despicable, and a far cry from anything have to do with rational logic when it comes to dealing with drama effectively.
3) Conformity
Often times I see many self-identified vampires making the claim that unless everyone in the community agrees to something, there is no possibility for progress. I find this type of thinking very prohibitive, and quite frankly an attempt at trying to control the community overall. Not every gay person is the same, and similarly, not every self-identified vampire is the same. It doesn't make them any less gay, or any less of a vampire. I think it's extremely important for people to, in general, accept that we all have differences.
4) Forgetting we are Human
Something very tragic I often see is that as a person becomes more solidified in their vampiric identity, they allow it to overtake them and forget that they are - primarily - a human being. I feel that this is very important to pay attention to in terms of how we interact with one another and progress. I feel this issue is present in conjunction with vampires using their nature as an excuse to behave destructively, erratically, or manipulatively (I call this "going rogue").
I know that we all have those moments as vampires when we just want to be at the top of the heap - in control of everything, admired and praised more than any others. It's hard enough to deal with that urge as a human being, and to add vampiric tendencies to the mix is twice as difficult. However, I feel that acknowledgement of these issues is the first step to overcoming them and working towards a community that utilizes general consensus and productive discussion, rather than warring words for "who makes the best point is the best vampire" mentality.
Macro-Suggestion: As I stated, I think it is important to become aware of these things.
I feel the Global Discussions that are hosted on IRC from time to time are pretty helpful, although it can be overwhelming with so many people talking at once. Perhaps having more of them, in a somewhat more relaxed tone, might be helpful. This could create more "sense" of community, and generate more positive energy and interactions. I think that although it might be hard in the beginning to air out some "dirty laundry", it's necessary to get through it so we can make room for more peace and calm in the VC - a community that instead of driving people apart, brings people together. I don't care if that sounds like an unrealistic "utopian" claim that will "never happen". Those who believe in the idea of feudalism are the very ones perpetuating the feudalism. If that was stopped, then there would be much more opportunity for growth.
I also think that what would help would be to have a forum that openly welcomes those who need help and have questions to receive help. I feel like in the midst of so much chaos regarding facebook, and many forums shutting down, there are not many places anymore where vampires of all ages and status can go to and feel okay with asking for help.
Another thing that I think helps is more open communication such as radio shows and youtube videos made by and for those within the OVC. I find this to be a great opportunity for everyone (new and not new) to find greater stability and assurance about the going-ons in the community. This can be an amazing time for the community (as opposed to a painful one) as we grow and transform into an incredible body of people with so much potential.
I also think that greater communication between existing forum moderators, visibly to the community, would be helpful. The divisiveness between community leaders is, in my opinion, detrimental to the overall growth of the community both online and offline. It's influential in terms of coming together - not to conform, but to bond in principles and to create more sustainability of positive outcomes. I feel the leaders of popular forums have a responsibility to stay on some sort of civil terms with fellow moderators, and I feel this would help with something that is severely lacking - continuity. Let me reiterate I am not calling out for conformity. I am calling for simply more continuity than we have right now to some degree.
It's the newly awakened that miss out the most if these issues are not dealt with. The Awakening process should be considered sacred, and treated as such. It is the most important time of a vampire's life, and one where the most guidance and help is needed. I feel that all of us in the community should feel some sense of personal responsibility for at the very least seeking to provide a safe and somewhat civil space that a newly awakened individual would be welcomed, and not judged for their flaws. Remember - every newly awakened person has the same information to go off of as those who might "pose" as vampires in the community. It is understandable that we have and will continue to see questions that tend to be ridiculous (such as flying or death concerns or otherwise). Furthermore, EVEN IF someone is a "poser" in the community, it does not mean that anyone should take it upon themselves to use that individual and verbally and socially degrade them either. This is un! necessary, and feeds destructive behavior. I feel that these concepts are, in large part, lost on many. I understand that it is never going to be perfect circumstances, and they should not be coddled. I simply feel it would be best if more mindfulness was given than it is right now.
Micro-Suggestion: I make sure to provide meditative exercises to those who are newly awakened that I encounter. I treat every individual I meet with the respect I feel they deserve, which tends to be with a lot of compassion, as I do not hold people's flaws against them. (I don't like this done to me, and so I do not do it to others as a rule.) I promote the ideas in conversations that I have stated here, and hope that it stimulates more peaceful practices in the community in general. I know that at times I can get overtly passionate and sometimes it comes off as anger. I don't mean for it to. I am not perfect. I hope that my answers here have also served to help stimulate these changes in the future.
Praise: I am thankful that there are individuals in the community that have sought to stand up for themselves in the face of naysayers. I am thankful for the work that has been done by those in the community to establish research and information in the scientific community. I am thankful for those who understand that if anything, we owe the newly awakened a chance to spread their wings without judgement, hatred, and group-think. I am thankful for those who welcome different opinions when so many vie for conformity. I am thankful for the forums and key facebook groups that do exist, in order to provide some sort of structure.
I believe in doing things not for the good of yourself, but primarily for the good of the community. I believe that while allowing praise for ones self when good work has been done, to obsess over right and wrong is the stop-sign to any positive growth.
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Response 220
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint:
Macro-Suggestion:
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise:
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Response 221
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Incompetence
Complaint: I have found and believe that the #1 'bad' thing about the Vampiric Community is the lack of self-awareness. The assumption that just because one is a vampire, one has the right to be a lewd or slutty type, constantly wearing inappropriate clothing and frequenting bars. The image of a Goth or a Victorian theme outfit is fine, but being a 'vampire', or any other term one wishes to use for the race, is just that, a race. Most of the Others I've met or sensed, just blatantly gave vampires a bad name.
Macro-Suggestion: First, all peoples, regardless to race, need to learn self-awareness. That we represent our Community by everything we do; it never stops. So, the first step is learning, education.
Next, putting that into practice... instead of the vulgarity and looseness that seems to be the common trend, practicing those civilities and graces are important. Like many other sub-culture, or minority group, we all of us can help in a small way, just by how we dress and speak, which turns into something big.
Finally, remembering time and place; if you want to party, party. But always remember that 'you' have an audience.
Basically, a very detailed form of 'pretty is as pretty does'!
Micro-Suggestion: As I stated above, I always try to be as courteous and well spoken as I can be. I do not choose offensive clothing, even if I wear a Goth style, and I keep my make-up aimed at the place I am going to. Naturally, no one is perfect, even myself, but I am constantly aware that I am a representative of the Vampiric Community - whether I want to be or not - and that means when people see me, they will hold me as an image for all vampires. So, I try to be the best image I can.
Praise: Hmm, well, the Community were I am is limited; but I think that so far, I have been pleased to see a great deal of honest. Between 'vampires' and between vampires and humans. Or Other Kind. Even when that 'honesty' or openness is not very well said, it is still genuine, and that's important. I want to see more of it, as I have found more and more humans to be extremely accepting...it gives me hope for the Community in the future.
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Response 222
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> None Of The Above
Complaint: I said none of the above, because I feel that all of the above would have been a better choice. We see all of these in the VC on a daily basis. They all harm the community in their own ways. While there are many areas that we need to work on in the community, My personal complaint would have to be the lack of donors being active in making the community better for everyone. Myself included. I know that much more could be done to make the community a better place for new or even old donors, but I have not taken the bigger steps to help it become what it could be. We have a growing number of donors willing to speak out and be active, we just do not really have any direction for them to be active in. Attitudes in the community are so varied when it comes to donor activity with-in the community that we tend to have no one do anything rather then stir the pot. Donors do not feel comfortable or free to be active in the general community for the most part, and this needs to change if we are to ever gain solid long term donors in the community.
Macro-Suggestion: Donors need to take personal responsibility for speaking up if they want things to change. We tend to have one person or sometimes a few people that push very hard for donors to be a bigger part of the general community, but they tend to push too hard too fast. We need to simply get used to speaking up on subjects that concern us, and not be so ugly if some community members do not agree with us being part of the community. The donor community needs to learn to just be active without clubbing the community as a whole over the head with our views.
Micro-Suggestion: I personally need to be less concerned with not pleasing everyone and simply speak out where I need to speak, but learn to sit back and ignore the situations that are not truly something I can help with. I plan on being more relaxed with those I disagree with (not getting emotional when we disagree) and to not be as worried about being more public with my concerns and views on issues that honestly matter. I guess I need to learn what battles are worth fighting and how to just stay out of those that are not worth the effort.
Praise: We have a good base of people that have many years of learning between them in this community. Those with years in the community that are able to pass on the lessons they learned to those that are new to either the community or to the vampire condition. There are several groups doing very good work in the community and in the world in general, and we need to support more of this type of thing.
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Response 223
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: I think that the biggest handicap the vampire community currently faces is our lack of cohesion leaving our members vulnerable to predation. As long as there are still disagreements on something as simple as what is and is not possible or real, we will have difficulty being accepted by mundane society and malicious individuals will find our community a ripe harvesting ground for naive young people searching for answers. Unfortunately I feel that the House/Coven structure system contributes to this in much the same way that small local churches contribute to the misinterpretation of doctrine and splinter off into new denominations or potentially cults.
Macro-Suggestion: I think that the body of the VVC is a step in the right direction toward correcting the lack of cohesion in the community, enabling us to share information about known malicious persons and trolls before they have a chance to do serious damage in the wider community. House structure can't be easily repaired, being a side effect of our human side's preference to be lead rather than think for ourselves. As with the rest of society, the best we can do is discourage pack mentality and continually invite constructive criticism of our leadership to promote growth and evolution of ideas.
Micro-Suggestion: While I personally dislike the formal structure of houses, I always encourage vampires who prefer more structure to join or start such groups. I would never discourage growth in any direction. Instead I try to create a welcoming, neutral environment where members or leaders of any different local houses/groups can come together simply to enjoy a comfortable, non-judgmental space together. I'm hoping that keeping this space available will encourage growth in my local community by enabling vampires with leadership potential to find like-minded individuals to help start whatever group or project they have in mind.
Praise: We have many responsible, involved people making themselves available through websites, forums, and social media to help direct the development of young vampires and help them steer clear of predators. More people are becoming actively involved in community instead of keeping to themselves, and it's certainly improving the ratio of rational, believable vampires vs. the bat-shit insane. Vampires also seem to be gaining more acceptance within the Pagan community (at least in my area), which I believe will be helpful in gradually helping the rest of society become more comfortable with us.
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Response 224
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: I know that I personally struggle a lot with having a very foreign, lost, confused, and extremely misanthropic personality.
Macro-Suggestion: We all need to realize that as vampires, regular meditation is extremely important to hone our feeding abilities, our digestive systems (energy digestive systems that is), and our perceptions of reality. And to feel more at home in this planet and this dimension. We need to meditate on our chakras, and meditate on compassion, kindness, and acceptance.
Micro-Suggestion: I will and AM doing the same things I stated above.
Praise: Our community is freaking FANTASTIC at drawing close together, exploring ourselves together, and praising, raising up, and worshiping each other's learning. I love all of my family, and I can feel that all of my family loves me in return.
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Response 225
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: To me it seems like they are more withdrawn, holding back...almost afraid to share their knowledge and experiences...but in some ways I can understand why, but it defeats the purpose of networking when that is done.
Macro-Suggestion: I would like to see events/gatherings more frequently and easy to get to, ie not far away...not more than an hour or 2. Now I know that's not possible in all situations or circumstances, but something I'd like to see.
Micro-Suggestion: I would like to be more involved in the vampire community in my area/state, but I find it hard to meet or drive to locations to meet people, part of that has to do with meeting an absolute stranger hoping they aren't a poser, or trying to be different. The other part is simply having the funds to travel.
Praise: I've found the yahoo group Shadowlore to be very helpful with support and questions I have.
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Response 226
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Grandiosity Narcissism
Complaint: People thinking there is only direction and one true way. disresepting others lives and ideas.
Macro-Suggestion: First lissen, then accept...if this does not work keep quite.
Micro-Suggestion: Groups or people may out line how they have handled issues in there group without judgement, as oppose to just telling others they are wrong.
Praise: It is good that some of us do the obove already and help build others groups...it would be good to see my fact based discussion.
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Response 227
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Hypocrisy
Complaint: to be compleatly honest i put down hypocrasy but the manin issue if you dig down deep is fear, fear of progression, fear of the unknown, and fear of that wich is actually true vs what most have tricked themselves into believing. most that I have personaly run into have this notion the only way to survive in this world is to become a parisidic creature who caters to the wants of others vs embracing there true nature as the ofspring of demons fearce beings that fight for what is right not what is expected. we are powerfull and strong we do not need to yield to others perceptions of us.
Macro-Suggestion: look back into our past, meditate on who we really are, stop trying to conform to this new age hollywood image of gentle vampires that would never hurt a fly. hell If you feel like it boycott Twilight (unless your a fan of Kristen Stewart's two emotions) dig deep in our roots. offer classes on energy work get the word out to the public stop hiding and start fighing back.
Micro-Suggestion: be my self and hope others will follow some of the advice I give out.
Praise: the idea at its core is a good one. unity is a strong concept I just think the community as a whole needs a massive face lift so to speak.
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Response 228
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Egotism
Complaint: One of the top things is an identity crisis. There are too many trying to identify what a vampire is and there are many answers but I can tell you what it is not, it is not identified by fetish, alternative lifestyles or whether one is goth. That has nothing to do with it whatsoever. I wish people would keep them separate. Being dark is more toward the lines of a goth mentality. You do not have to be interested in what some term "dark things" to be a vampire nor do you have to dress goth or sleep in a coffin. People are too adamant about what is right or wrong and not open-minded for the most part even if they profess to be. Many of them are bullies and gang up on people that have different viewpoints. It happens all the time and they gossip behind their backs. Many make threats and some are nasty ones. It is rather commonplace these days. Writing a book does not make one an authority nor does making a lot of websites on topics associated with vampirism and inviting in a lot of people. It just makes you a joiner and group creator but no more of an expert than anyone else. There shouldn't be any problem if people want to use titles, are spiritual about their vampirism or are any age if an adult. Unfortunately laws make it undesirable to mentor those under 18 and shouldn't be done unless it is the parents. You shouldn't be recognized as anyone special because you go to all the festivities. Vampires are naturally NOT gregarious. That is why there are so many cliques, groups and what have you. They are restless and never happy with status quo. I don't believe in the idea of a community. How can it be called a community when vampires are spread throughout the world and many of them never hearing of all the lame brain groupings that are made up in New Orleans and New York City. Those in America are highly egotistical and for some reason have tunnel vision about others. They are too open about things unlike people in Europe and elsewhere but it flows into the "community" and many don't know what is actually going on because of the nature of people to keep saying, don't tell anyone this or that. What makes information the property of anyone in the vampire community? What use is it if a select few think they have the right to keep things to themselves. I'm tired of being told by a few what to believe about vampirism, what I can talk about with others and read all this information that clearly has nothing to do with vampirism like BDSM and abhorrent behavior. Live and let live is fine but some things need to be kept separate, otherwise vampirism becomes a hodgepodge of a lot of activities that are not of interest to everyone and infringe on personal choice.
Macro-Suggestion: For one quit creating vampire celebrities. Some need to realize they are respected but they are coming in establishing things without considering there was a vampire grouping before they arrived on the scene. Be respectful to those who have been around a long while. Don’t try to force changes on them that are not necessary. A vampire remains a vampire so there are no epiphanies anyone can bring into that. They existed long before many things that have become so popular as far as activities. Be respectful and open minded. Words can’t hurt you so don’t take things so personally and bicker about them. Quit deciding a group is a cult and telling people to refrain from association. Give out the information about the group and leave decisions beyond that to the individual. Some of the Houses are just as bad as these groups. I don’t know what to say about fixing what I have been talking about other than if one is talking about vampirism leave it on vampirism and not some of these side issues. Be more accepting of those with other opinions and rather than ban them, research what they are saying or plainly find out why they feel the way they do. Slow down the new people when they try to come in. They are welcome but they shouldn’t all of a sudden be the WORD on vampires. Don’t take ourselves so seriously. Beyond what I said previously, for the so-called community to get along it will take compromise and maturity. Age isn’t always relevant to knowledge but maturity comes with time and experience. If they didn’t learn manners in the home they most likely will be ill mannered to everyone in the community. I don’t know what can be done about that because making more rules and lists won’t fix the problem. I don’t see a fix happening any time too soon because I believe those that are real vampires tend to be overbearing most of the time and are extremely diverse. They fit right in with those that have Asperger’s Syndrome. It is a matter of wanting change for the better. As long as everyone believes their viewpoints are the only right ones, there is nothing I can suggest that will change what I have complained about.
Micro-Suggestion: I plan to stay committed to the vampire “community” and help out where I can. Teach or write if asked to and try not to get too argumentative with others when they are clearly being juvenile.
Praise: This is a hard one because of all the factions involved but kudos to those who are trying to teach and approach the public in a positive way. Beyond that I have no praise really because the community as I see it is in total chaos with only a few doing much of anything and those that do sort of steam-rolling their way into it. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful. It will take a big change in behavior to get my praise.
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Response 229
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: I would say in my personal experience that misuse of personal power for manipulation of others would be my biggest complaint. Why not be more open about who/what we are versus having to glamour/manipulate people into giving energy, that likely you could find donors for if you were just honest about it.
Macro-Suggestion: I do not really have many solutions as I feel that a mass of the population would freak the fuck out if we completely stepped out from behind the veil. However I think it is time we show ourselves. We are valuable. Regardless of peoples fears.
Micro-Suggestion: I honor my darkness.I tell the people closest to me about it. I do not steal energy, I find ways to supplement it. IE...Tantra, breathwork, bodywork, Reiki. And so on
Praise: I love the vampire communities because they honor the depth of their darkness in a world diluted by their ideals of being ALL-LIGHT. We are all everything.
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Response 230
Most Debilitating Vampire Community Attribute:
> Deception
Complaint: 1a) Too many people don't do fact checking, and pass off their beliefs as "teh one true gospel" of vampirism, instead of saying "____ is part of MY/OUR faith path/house beliefs/etc" or "______ is MY theory of how things work."
1b) Too many people don't fact-check what OTHERS say - or "fact check" with -zero- critical eye for the details of the "information sources" (i.e., info sites on the cdc, medscape, or other serious scientific sites versus "joe's tripod homepage" type sites, professional vs. unprofessional spelling/grammar, navigation quality and so on.)
2) Too many people tolerate assholes who claim to be elders or to "know things".
3) In a similar vein (ha ha) too much uncontested "bullshit brigades" without any sane opposition.
4) Politics and drama, in general.
Macro-Suggestion: 1a) People need to be willing to do the legwork that real research means, if they're going to present it as "reality" rather than a faith path. I realize THIS is most likely a pipe dream. But hey, it's a nice pipe dream.
1b) Fact-checking other people's work (like peer review, only less politics and more research.)
2) People should not tolerate the assholes. Either they smack 'em down a peg or three, en masse, or walk away and never deal with them again. The ones that don't want conflict should find the second option easier to do.
3) We need more people willing to fight the battle of the bullshit - as it is, the onsies / twosies / just a handfuls willing to do so are getting drowned out and flamed out by the fanbois of the bullshit, and anyone else is just not getting involved because they don't want to be in the line of fire.
4) Politics and drama -should- be substantially reduced if people work for the overall "greater good of the whole", instead of the personal good of the self. If someone's going to get involved with an eye towards becoming a "mover and shaker" in the community, they should always keep in mind whether what they're doing serves the greater good.
5) People need to develop thicker skins and a sense of humor. Having one's beliefs challenged is not the end of the world.
Caveat: Those with mental illness, we realistically can't do much about, at least on the internet. Certainly we - as a whole - could promote things like the cult evaluation frame and the sociopath checklists. Let people be as forewarned as possible.
Micro-Suggestion:
Praise: The VVC - on an organizational level - for managing (somehow) to stay neutral (from what I've seen) compared to the other drama bombs that go off on a regular basis. I realize individuals are responsible for themselves (and often do what they please regardless of what's best for the situation), but it's nice to see that in an official capacity that the VVC continues to stay out of it, despite efforts by some individuals to drag the organization into the dirt.
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