Hi Bert, Fortunato. Occasionally when I first became involved in Mudcat I'd use profanity (usually in a "Holy Cow" kind of way), but I've noticed that I've gradually stopped, or on occasion used the silly **** sort of thing. I think whether misplaced or not, it's because I'm trying not to be offensive to someone who really DOES take that kind of thing seriously. I can be pretty flippant at times, and almost never take personal offence at anything someone else says, but I've come to appreciate that in a community such as this, I can feel more of "a part of it" if I "think before posting". The national character is a part of it as well. Were the Mudcat mostly Canadians, Brits, Aussies etc. I'd probably swear more and not worry about offending folks regarding religion, and dark humour. Religious faith is HUGE in America, even among very liberal folk, and though it's tempting at times to make light of the "jesus marketing industry" (even in folkish music), why do it, if it makes some good people uncomfortable? Same with swearing. As most of you know, occasionally I get seriously heated at times..but if I'm going to step on toes I'd rather do it around an issue that I REALLY care about.
I've NEVER really been part of any community (always preferred to be on the periphery of MANY communities), but I like it here, and I wanna stay awhile. A little bending isn't hard at all. (good discipline practice as well...and that helps when you're a lazy musician, like I am)

Rick