I am sorry to "harp" guys, but I still think you are all missing the main point and that is that here on the Mudcat we try to be civil to one another. If a newbie comes on here like a gangbuster, slinging mud without regard to who it's hitting, well then, I say let him stand back and catch some of it himself!

It is certainly possible to talk and write about the Irish conflicts without using derogatory terms; I know, I've had editorials published on the subject.

Now, isn't it interesting that here are Mick and me, he the Irish American Catholic, me Irish/Scottish/English and Native American, who was ardently encouraged to wear orange on St. Pat's Day, agreeing more often than not and able to engage without mudslinging? Here on the Mudcat, though, I do not find this surprising at all as it has been more often than not the case with everyone.

Now, I think you all are belabouring the point and have not taken your own advice to try to see things from Mick's perspective. Yes, his "Irish" might have been up and he may have reacted, but I don't think it was uncalled for. If someone is going to come in here and use those terms, then they'd better be ready for the fallout. Just 'cause we Mudcateers tend to be easygoing, nice and caring, doesn't mean we have to lie down in the road.

And now you know why my nickname used to be Irish; it went with the red hair and temper!

katlaughing, sparks a'flying