Your second paragraph is so true CS.

I think the fact that quite a number of us know each other in the real world, even though we are normally separated by a lot of miles, makes the 'Cat a great place to keep up with any real problems being experienced in our lives. When Kendall was so ill I found it easier to cut and paste one statement for Mudcat, Facebook and email to let those who were interested know what was happening.

I do believe in the power of positive thought and I know that the various posts on Kendall's threads have helped both of us through some hard times and the same is true for a number of 'Catters who have gone through difficult times over the years. There are the occasional posts in which it is clear that the thought is not for the subject of the thread, but more about the poster but one will find these self absorbed people in all walks of life so we just skip over those posts and go on to those who are genuinely concerned about what is happening.

As always, and unlike what happens in real life, it is quite easy NOT to go into a thread/read a post if the subject matter or the poster gets up your nose.