"Rod has never been accused of being tactful."
I met Rod at MoJam that year, although I'd "known" him from the internet much longer. Had dinner with him. Enjoyed his company.
I would not judge Rod as being overly tactful. LOL Neither would I judge him to be malicious in intent, or unusually conceded in consideration of his own standing in any area. Similarly, I'd not judge Marc to be overly sensitive to criticism, or particularly subject to the winds and whims of popularity or conformity. These traits I admire in both of you. Not that my opinion matters, other than it's complimentary. ;-)
And I should note that you both served as mentors of a sort to me as I was coming along in the craft, and have achieved some measure of proficieny as a consequence. Which is why I find this so perplexing, and have in the past. I think it's a darn shame ya'll have gotten cross-wise. Been that way for lots of years. Have seen this exchange, or one like it, here before.
Marc, as always I love to see elm wood bend perty like you make it.