This is exactly the flexible and forthcoming discussion I hoped could occur from my clumsy question. I keep thinking of it as The Mudcat Mind Exchange-- fresh mind, here at the Cat. Not a trade-in. A carwash.

The related question, and I guess I can suggest a direction for thread creepage since I started this one, would be what some of you have already alluded to-- the way Mudcat has influenced you so as to be more [something] out there in your 3D life. I know my relationships in the fleshworld are better, more open, more loving, more.... ME in them than had been the case before I came reeling in through the door here one day, worn out from trying to make a difference in the Red Cross. At the same time, there is LESS ME in these same relationships, in a good way.

I think I didn't get a better heart here so much as a better way of using it? I treasure you all; everything I read here stretches the envelope I carry the world in. And like minds and hearts, envelopes seem only to be able to grow once the stretching begins.

I especially appreciate the dear friends I have made among those of you who took the time to get to know me, past whatever stereotypes I may have sailed in under. Some of you had to change your minds a bit to do that, and I am not unaware of that when I ask these questions. You've set me a good example. I change for knowing you, too. Sometimes you've been far braver about it than I.

~Susan~