On Steemit, we take pride in our work. We encourage original content.

We Do Not Steal From Each Other

I regret to inform you all about this little problem. Today, this article was published:

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Do you see any similarities between the colorful image seen along with that article and the image below?

Meet Gerald

As many of you know, I produce digital art. I often share my productions right here on Steemit. I've been at it for four months, as of today.

I produced Gerald roughly two weeks ago. The first time the public met Gerald was here:

I did not give the user @bitcoinnational permission to use Gerald. As a matter of fact, that user may be experiencing trouble taking 'NO' for an answer. You see, on a previous post of mine, that user made me an offer which I refused. I am under no obligation to accept offers, especially if I do not agree with the terms. Common sense when it comes to business.

I'm not going to get into details about the discussion, but I have nothing to hide. If you're curious, the exchange took place here, in the comment section. I did my best to be professional while being honest and giving my reasons as to why I was not interested. I am free to make my own decisions and will continue to do so.

I tried to be comforting, I realize hearing 'NO' can be hard for some people. Sometimes, it's not the easiest answer to give either. I reminded this user my decisions were strictly business and nothing personal. I meant it.

After receiving another message today from @bitcoinnational, I became curious. I had a feeling something strange was going on, so I had a look at his/her blog. That is when I discovered the post which included my image. I wasn't impressed.

I read the post. Under Gerald was a message for me personally.

Observe

That was the first time I've ever flagged a post. I'm not taking this personally because I do like to hold myself to a higher standard. I'd like to believe majority of Steemit members do as well.

So, What's the Deal?

How does that make you feel? If someone stole your words or photos and passed them off as their own, would you be impressed? What if they did that, then told you to, "Suck it?"

Sorry folks, but that is not how we Steemit. On a few occasions I've produced images for members here to use, with permission. They give me credit the same way you give credit to those who provide your images. I don't mind if my images draw attention to your articles, if I've given you permission to use them. I enjoy it. I'm more than happy to help. Each time I've done that, I've never asked for money in return.

Recently, I've upped the ante here. I've been offering every Steemit member the opportunity to download much higher quality versions of the images I share within this blog, for free. I'd like my work to be synonymous with quality. I am attempting to earn money as a digital artist using the Steemit platform exclusively. I enjoy it. I've found success. For the most part, I am quite impressed with this platform, the benefits and the community.

I'd like to continue on my path. I do see myself being successful here. I am incredibly disappointed by @bitcoinnational's actions though. That sort of behavior is not what I signed up for, and I'm not going to take it sitting down. I don't let anyone take advantage of me either. I'm sure many of you can respect that. I'm confident many of us share the same values, because I've seen them being demonstrated here numerous times.

If there is a silver lining. If I can pull a positive from this. All I can really say is their actions today proved to me that I did make the right decision when I said 'NO'.

Thank you for your attention. Have a good day.

"There's nothing wrong with being honest."
Follow @nonameslefttouse [email protected]

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