I can't say that I blame Alex for being upset by this. And stalking or cyberstalking may not be the only issue here.

There are some epithets — most of the "ist" variety — that are particularly insidious. So insidious, in fact, that there are laws covering them. Slander and libel. Slander is when a defamatory remark is made verbally; libel is when the remark is written. Postings of this kind on the internet are written, hence they are libel. If the defamed person chooses to call the defamer to book, the only defense the defamer has is to try to prove that the remark is true. And believe me, to cite someone's parody of a personal ad as proof just ain't gonna cut it in court. Therefore, before one starts leveling such remarks, one had better think pretty damned carefully.

Senator Joseph McCarthy made full use of such epithets and accusations, playing the coward's part by hiding behind Congressional immunity — but his vicious mouth turned out to be his downfall in the long run, and history remembers him for his witch-hunts, false accusations, and general excesses.

Anonymity also provides a shield. Sniping from the darkness. That's the coward's way.

But anonymity can be a transitory thing. . . .

I hereby go on record that I, too, am a white male.

Does saying that make me a racist? Be very careful how you answer that.

Don Firth