SQL Family: Nuts about SQL

Someone coined the hash tag “#SQLFamily” on Twitter not so long ago. So as part of “Meme Monday”, Thomas LaRock a.k.a. SQL Rockstar (Twitter | Blog) asked for people to write about “What #SQLFamily means to me.” I’ve read some great blog posts so far. I don’t know what more I can contribute or say what hasn’t already been said, but I’ll give it a shot.

In some ways I feel being a part of SQL family is like living in a bag of mixed nuts. It’s probably a very poor analogy and I hope no one takes offense, but I believe we’re all at least a little nuts in some way. Obviously, some people are nuttier than others which can make for very entertaining and enlightening conversations. It can also explain why we all get along so well, for the most part. Say what? What I mean is that no matter how different we all are (peanuts vs.  pecans) or where we come from (from Canada to Slovenia), we have at least one thing in common – a love for SQL Server.

A little squirrelly? Nutty? Why not?

In my opinion (and others), SQL family is about people who are not just willing to help but who enjoy helping others. Their dedication really shows through by being approachable at events to writing articles and answering questions on Twitter. They may exist, but I don’t know of any other technical community where you can get an entire day of fantastic free training such as the SQL Saturday movement.  *cough* <insert shameless plug for SQL Saturday #104> Don’t forget to resister here! Submit your abstracts now! </insert>

As with any large group, you have a variety of nuts… err, people. Some are pretty outgoing and some are fairly shy. You have people with expert level knowledge, those just starting to learn, and others in between.  However, I’ve determined that if you try to make an effort to get to know people regardless of their level of expertise, you can be rewarded with great friendships and ample entertainment. People you can turn to when you have an issue you need help with, whether it’s technical or not and whether it’s at conventions (SQL Rally, PASS, etc) or online such as Twitter, forums or blogs. We argue. We laugh! We cry. We share.  It really is a great thing. *group hug!*

Having said all that, no one is perfect and neither is any family or community. Every group has their share of issues and problems, but what I feel makes the SQL community stand out is their willingness to share their knowledge and how much they enjoy doing so.  It may sound a bit cheesy and even though I’m not quite sure where I fit in (maybe everyone’s nutty little sister), I am proud to be a part of this wonderful family.