Rob my friend, all will be well.
Take a breather. Step away and clear the head.
There are very interesting revelations and other surprises coming soon for this community. Some may cause a stir, while most, I hope will bring an undeniable voice of reason to our community and perhaps even result in some unification.
All communities go through chaos and change. It is the nature of things. We are human and prone to conflicts of opinions.
We can all trudge through this and all benefit in the end. I really don't see why we can't now.
All should let go of what their pre-conceived notions of a Hang, HandPan or Steel Pan, or even tongue drum is at this point. This artform is way too young to be drawing such staunch opinions and lines over. At this point, we should either decide to stay true to our paths, or embrace the inevitable changes that occur, especially with something so young that has soooo much passion attached to it.
This story, the story of steel, is far from over. And we have yet to see all of the cast. No one is right or wrong at this point. Everyone can maintain their beliefs and still be right. And everyone could be completely wrong! But, does it matter? 99.9% of us are enthusiasts at best. Only 0.01% actually can claim any direct action in the development of this artform. We are mostly spectators, with varying opinions on what the creators make. Let's keep that in perspective, shall we?
To clarify, let's remember who is creating, and who is critiquing, and who it really matters to in the grand scheme of things.
The key is positive participation and active listening, to help our community grow in a positive direction.
We are infants in this art. Yet, we can guide perceptions and feelings too easily in regards to easily being in our positions. We must be responsible stewards for this artform.
Open........ and responsible stewards.
I hope Rob, that your love can be re-kindled. Your voice was one of the first I heard in this community, I would hate to not hear it anymore, here. Follow your heart, and know that nothing is permanent. Everything is in a constant state of change.
But change keeps us from stagnation.

All will be well, my friend.

The steel sings only when the soul touches it through thoughtful flesh............