Personally, I would feel self conscious using a notebook or crib sheets, but, that's me. God gave me an excellent memory (he/she slighted me in other ways) so I dont need to rely on those. However, if you are among people who look down on you for using notes, then they are there for the wrong reasons.What kind of world would we have if,say,Rick looked down on those who dont play as well as he? This is folk music, we do it for the love of the music, not to put ourselves above others just because we were able to memorize songs! Anal and folk music dont mix.I dont care what your limits are, you are unique, and no one can do what you do, the way you do it. If you love the music and love to share what you have, you are blessed, and so is anyone who is willing to shut up and listen to you.If they are trying to make you do your music their way, then, they are missing something besides manners. I'm ranting, sorry.