Thank you for giving us your opinion, Crowhugger. There are some times when I feel even talking about a particular subject is going to get me into trouble, never mind what I actually say. I believe once we stop talking because we think others won't understand, or we assume we know how everyone will think and react, that's when the real trouble starts. The more honest viewpoints are presented, the greater the chance of understanding.

As far as "Or am I forever just part-black?" - I doubt I'd think about it unless race was the topic of discussion - and then only to try to understand your perspective. You've written too many other interesting, intelligent posts for me to focus on one.

When I consider singing an old song with lyrics that may be offensive, I don't worry so much about what people think - I worry about how they'll feel. I don't care if some people will wish to correct my speech or tell me a word isn't used today. I care that someone who hears it may be embarrassed, angry, or hurt. I think most of the time, I'm more uncomfortable with lyrics than others would be and make an erroneous assumption based on my own feelings.