Web-boards come in for a container-load of criticism: sadly, much of it is deserved. Modern man has created the coolest-ever communication tool and what do we do? We use it to bitch at each other. Online “communities” can become a breeding ground for misinformation, disinformation (there is a difference), flames and anonymous spin.
Fortunately, it's not all bad. Occasionally, you may be fortunate enough to meet a fellow netizen with a kind word to say.
Ruaraidh Johnstone was such a man. An English teacher, he posted under his real name, poked his cheeky face out from cyberspace with a real picture of himself, spoke about real things in a real way: funny, naughty, open, honest, friendly, patient, welcoming, knowledgeable, questioning. His positive energy, joy of life, love for his students, respect for his colleagues and simple satisfaction with life in Thailand were a warm reminder of the good in people. He often even brought virtual strangers together for a bite to eat and to chew the fat in the real world.
On Feb 10 Ruaraidh was entertaining the board with stories and pictures from a recent school trip to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. On Feb 11 Ruaraidh was the fatal victim of a tragic motorcycle accident in Bangkok.
The outpouring of shock and sadness from those fortunate enough to pass by him in person and others who only shared his life online shows that the good do not always go unnoticed. Sadly, it is often just too late.
Maybe you should give a big smile and say thanks to your teacher when you finish class today, you never know, they might not be there when you get to school tomorrow.
