So, I'd like to offer my support to Jeff's email and position.
I really welcome the open-sourcing of their client (as I'd like to
have a look to see what all the noise is about), but I think it's
watering down our message if Linux Australia comes out and supports
(what is currently) proprietary software.
Sorry Michael and Jeff - this just doesn't sit right with me...
So if I'm reading and interpreting the above correctly, we are saying that if someone is TRYING to do the right thing we will snub them until they're fully there - how does that help them? If we see someone trying to walk our path and stumbling over real obstacles, is it right to ignore them unless they manage to get to our preferred destination? Would it not be better to say "here, let me help you, what support do you need?"
I think it's wonderful that they have taken the initiative to open source their product. They have openly stated that this is their aim, and these are the steps they are taking to get there. Here are the priorities (which make sense). The open source community should back them and say we're here to support you 100%. Help you get there faster (and betterer)! AND... Help Linden become a showcase for why other companies should be looking to follow suit and GPL their own products!
I'm sorry, but this all or nothing approach just makes us look pig-headed and difficult... Not the happy happy joy joy linux = freedom + power thing we're going for, right?