It sounds like fire fighting fire.  I usually only "read" this echo because 
of this very thing. Contention.  It seems that when persons get the searching 
bug
that contention begins. Perhaps not with everyone; but I have been assisting
with searching since 1983 and it happens all  the time.   In my opinion, I
feel the problem is "power".   Sometimes this "power" closes as many doors; 
as anything else does.  I have learned that searching is a progressive 
alent;
learning something new each day; from others that search.  While I do agree 
that there is alot of information that people use to benefit their search 
hat
should be shared; there is alot that should be "stiffled" somewhat.  I 
hatted
with DeAnne several years back when she first began searching for her 
rother.
Because of "by word of mouth";  DeAnne had called a support group  here in
Richmond that subsequently led her to finding her brother; with alot of  hard
work; work she did  on her own; but work she did by "learning" what and where
is available.  Alot of what DeAnn shared is written in black and white in the
books in the library; and shared among those at support groups.  This same
information is shared on the phone calls that searchers get; even when the
searcher is NOT REALLY sure who they area talking to.   For all anyone knows;
a searcher could get a call from a agency worker; posing as an adoptee or
birthmother; and reveal information that may be more private that what Deanne
has posted.  It has happened to me on several occasions.  This is one of the
ploys that the State of New York used on Sandra Musser to convict her.  She
readily shared information with someone she trusted.   Searching is very
emotional;  as you can see. It even captivates those who search and sometimes
rather than "help" each other; because of "wanting power" it actually blocks
the efforts of some.    This echo would serve the purpose better if persons
would KINDLY give suggestions rather than being so critical.  DeAnne has
arned alot about searching since  began looking  for her brother; and
should be commended for her hard work and  for "sharing".  It is by sharing
that success is met.
Yes, there is alot of information that should not be aired; but as far as
giving tips on what is  public record; hey - it is in ALL the search books
for anyone to read; including the agencies and Congressmen.
Sometimes there are those who don't want to share information because they
want to keep it themselves in order to get all the glory.  Sometimes there
are persons who charge to search and would  prefer that persons are not given
information to be able  to do it themself.  How sad.  I ask, are these 
ersons
really concerned in helping or more concerned in their own needs; glory?
I sincerely hope that this echo will continue to serve the needs of All who
are involved in searching; adoptees, birthparents; siblings and even other
searchers.    My belief is that if there are 100 haystacks to look in; then
certainly five or six persons could help quicker than one trying to do it 
alone.
Searching in Virginia
Barbara Leonard
--- RAPro250/GEcho 1.11+
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