Nice pome, TTR. Your own?

Thank you for that more reasoned response, LR. I agree about 'treating' with drugs people who are a bit different . In fact I'm not keen on using any drugs, even when I'm ill, if I can help it. That way madness lies. And antibiotic resistant bacteria.

There are a lot of us folkies who are a bit strange - it goes with the job!   I've found that in the folk world people are far more accepting of all sorts of strangeness than in the general population. That may be why I stayed once I discovered it at 15.

I agree about things 'smoothing out', too. I can now, in middle age, actually detect myself 'growing up' and being more aware of other people's feelings, sensibilities etc.   For example I wouldn't (at least in public) make violently blasphemous comments.    Don't get me wrong - I'm a devout atheist, but I think a lot of people might be greatly offended.

Individual differences are fine.   You're right too about my 'characteristics' (shall we say?) making me a more interesting person.
;)
Steve