Spotlight on the Meeting of the Minds. Sunny Love Holiday Reporting.

Do you enjoy discussing current events or topics that effect our modern society, but hate when things get heated and neither point of views are truly heard?

Are you longing for a beautiful gathering area where great minds can learn from one another with respect?

 Well of you answered yes to either of those questions, I don’t think there is a better discussion group in Second Life to enjoy good conversation with the respect your view deserves. Let me introduce to you  The Meeting of the Minds.

Recently I was invited to visit the Meeting of the Minds welcome center by the creators of this group, Starr Zackerly, and Timantti Vesiputous. I was pleasantly surprised by the warm and community like atmosphere.  I instantly felt comfortably, and was greeted quickly with a warm smile. Once granted access to the discussion venue, I felt positive vibes as I enjoyed the wonderful landscaping and Décor that I am sure was created with the great idea of keeping things warm, light hearted and fun. 

After a lovely walk, we reached the discussion stage where most topics are covered, and I was more than happy to see two large you tube style television that allow you web access to pull up any proof you may need to prove your point. This discovery brought me such excitement I couldn’t wait to sit them down and find out more about this wonderful group.

Interview with Timantti

Sunny: When did the meeting of the minds begin and how did it come about?

Timantti : The Meeting of the Minds was created on May 11th of 2014. It started when Starr and I discussed trying to make a discussion and debate venue similar to the paltalk room we had met each other in. Starr also was inspired by her experience with the community at The O Lounge.

Sunny: How does one become a member?

Timantti : Anyone can join the group when they arrive at the Welcome Center by clicking on the gnome near the entrance.

Sunny: Are there any membership fees? If so how much and what is the purpose of the fee?

Timantti : There is a $100 Linden membership fee. The fee helps keep the group comfortably sized and adds some protection from others who aren't interested in having discussions.  All of the proceeds go directly to maintaining the venue.

Sunny: I like how this Group cover a wide range of subjects, are there any subjects that are taboo?

Timantti : There is no subject too taboo for us! We love to learn about and discuss new perspectives. We want people to feel save to bring up any topic for serious debate and discussion.

Sunny: Since you are discussing topics that people are most likely going to disagree with and many have strong feelings about….how do u keep the atmosphere friendly?

Timantti : We work as a community to maintain respect. When people begin to react emotionally we offer a queue board to help everyone stay on topic and have their opinions heard by the rest of the group.

Sunny: Can you briefly explain how the queue board works?

Timantti : Yes, the queue board gives structure to the discussions when the conversation gets emotional. Once someone clicks the queue button their name appears on the board and it allows them 2 minutes to make their point before it’s the next persons turn.  We also have media boards so that people can display websites or videos to support their arguments.

Sunny: Yes I see and really like that. Also you have another way for discussion to be held called the round table.  Can you briefly explain it works?

Timantti : The round table was a concept designed by our admin Catalina. At the round table 2-4 people have the opportunity to have a moderated debate. These are for more structured and formal debates, where the audience would listen and comment after it's finished.

Sunny: You also have a wonderful lady by the name of Myrraiel that holds Biological Anthropology lectures as well. Please tell our readers a little about that?

Timantti : Myrraiel is working on her MA and has offered to share her knowledge with us.  Each Friday she leads a discussion on a topic related to Biological Anthropology. Topics include sexuality, evolution and genetics.

Sunny: This sim is beautiful and looks like has a lot of neat gathering areas, Please explain one or two of them for us.

Timantti: We have a beautiful campfire area. It’s equipped with video viewers so you can share songs and clips while you relax.  The campfire is great for fun and casual conversations. Then we have a fishing hole that features CC's Custom Creations for 7seas fishing. There's also a mermaid oasis under the water and a garden full of fun surprises that you can find by rezzing a boat.

Sunny: What would be the best way for our readers to learn more about this excited group?

Timantti : They can learn more about us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MotMSL.  We also have a video on youtube that explains what we do at Meeting of the Minds and shows a walkthrough of the venue.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQuqX491qic

Sunny: I have had a wonderful time today. Thank you for showing me around and enlighten me. It was a pleasure to meet all of you.

Timantti: Thanks so much for stopping by.  We have more events and discussions planned, hopefully you can stop by again and get into the debate. Take care and stop by anytime!

Additional Information

SLURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dreamworld%20Sea/50/64/27

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotMSL

Preferred Contact: Starr Zackerly, and Timantti Vesiputous

Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQuqX491qic