I'm not too sure where I'm going to be going with this post so forgive me if it rambles. My coffee isn't done yet.
I've been reading the digest more frequently than I have in months mostly because of the quality of the posts regarding the war and the current political scene. I always come away amazed at the intelligence of my fellow JMDL members. Khakki, you especailly amaze me. I may not always agree with what you think or how you express it, you but you do put out an opportunity for me to make sure I have both sides of the discussion. Indeed, you make it downright easy for me because you provide so many lnks and quotes. Kate, Debra and others,too, constantly provide my iliterate intellect with high quality food for thought. I don't think that I've ever said how appreciative I am of the time and trouble that you take to post your thoughts and opinions. For that now, I say thanks. I have been on this list since nearly the beginning and a non-digest, swinging both sides member at that. (down people, I mean JC and NJC!!). So I've seen the flow of passions and how certain things can fall over without as much as a reply from anyone to threads that spark passions not seen since the days that the Mets won the World Series. Within this there has always been list members that have felt intimidated to post their opinions. I don't think that anything will change that. The make up of this list is that, all opinions are welcomed but you had better be prepared to present them succiently and armed with facts. To speak only for yourself and avoid gross generalizations. Sometimes I think that if you do feel intimidated, you need to look at what you'd like to express and make sure it's packing the necessary punch in terms of support. That my personal philosophy and from that, I've always felt that the intimidation issue needs to be personally resolved by those who feel that way. Active list members are smart. Sharply so. It's like an advanced intellectual aerobics workout so you need to warm up, stay hydrated and hang in there. Sermon stop. Coffee ready. Must go now. MG
