Shambles,

I have watched you do this so many times, that quite frankly I tire of it. I have re-written this a number of times, as I began to go after your attempts to belittle my work. I choose not to do that. But I would suggest one thing to you, Shamb. Try reading the posts from the standpoint of trying to understand the other point of view. Try to figure the meaning of the words to the person that wrote them. Try starting with this phrase from my post;

"Who people choose to associate with (because they are comfortable, or feel safer, etc.)has no bearing on what is right or wrong in the world. The simple fact of the matter is that people who are what they are by the grace of God, are discriminated against for something (like sexual orientation)in which they by and large had no choice in the matter. In my mind that is inherently evil, which means that I must use my ability as a bard to sing out against it."

If after you have done that, then you respond, no problem. Because any reasoned interpretation of that phrase would have come to the conclusion that I am striking out at the injustice, as opposed to taking a position on the issues of community. It is no more than you asked me to do in my response to Sapper.

And by the way, I have never performed at a hold hands and sing songs party. I have never been the guest of honor at a wine and cheese party in support of gay rights. I generally perform to the wider populace, as I don't care much for preaching to the choir. I would rather challenge those who, in my humble opinion, need their perceptions and logic challenged. But if asked, I would certainly be happy to contribute in any way I could in order to further the cause of basic human rights.

And I still feel this is a very important thread. I love the references to the double meanings in lyrics. And the philosophical differences help our community to grow. Katlaughing, quit moping around and get your arse back in the fray. This is a positive thread and all who read it are enriched by it. I have read the posts of Don M. and others and I have more respect now for the power of this place than I did before. The fact that we can have this conversation is testament to the open-minded attributes of our town.

Big Mick