From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=408">strass12</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Baby,<BR>
you are so cute.  I love you so much!  your words explain so much about yourself.  <BR>
Love always,<BR>
your wife to be
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=408">strass12</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Just wanted to let you know I read it...I love you!<BR>
Love,<BR>
your wife to be,<BR>
Kristen
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Angel Flower?<BR>
<BR>
             Lovely tight job on the Man In The Iron Mask. We don;t get a lot of formal verse---but this was excellent.<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
                                      Gala
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=355">little_blue_man</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

I would like to express my thoughts on the issue of multiple screen names. But before I start talking, I would like to say something. In my relatively short experience here at the blender, it has been my observation that many people seem to rush through poems and posts on the blender board. As a result, many misinterpret the intention of the writer.  This leads to individuals seeing something in a work that was never intended or believing that a post of praise or help on the board is one of undue criticism.  The danger of this has now increased ten fold with tempers flared and emotions high. It is not my intention, nor my desire, to offend or anger anyone currently engaged in this debate. I merely would like to state another observation of mine in this particular matter.  I, therefore, am attempting to choose my words wisely, and hope that all concerned will take the time to read this with equal care.<BR>
<BR>
Having read the series of posts about multiple screen names that have emerged over the course of the past couple of days, I find myself confused a bit by those most vocally protesting it. I clearly understand the point that has been made about someone having multiple names and using all of them simultaneously for whatever reason. Yet the argument has advanced beyond that point to the insinuation that any and everyone should have one and only one screen name now and forever, and that anything else is improper. My confusion rest in the apparent inconsistency these individuals have in their view of this matter. There are writers who have come to the blender, posted their works, vanished for a period of time, returned, posted another series of works and vanished again. These writers have done this repeatedly. In some cases a writer may have posted under as many as three or four different screen names.  By doing just a little digging here on the blender, it can be found that the group that is upset with the screen name issue has revered the works of such writers. Under these circumstances, the use of multiple screen names does not seem to have been a problem. My underlying question is: Why does it make a difference in the case of “blenderites” whose works are not as widely praised by this same group? <BR>
<BR>
To be absolutely honest, the use of multiple screen names is a non-issue to me. You may love it, or hate it, but the fact is that the blender is a part of the internet. And as a computer science student I have acknowledged the reality that the use of multiple screen names/handles/user IDs is a fact of life. It also does not matter to me if anyone thinks that reality is good or bad. I myself face such a situation even now. I have personally made it a point to provide an email address in my account so that should anyone care to do so, they can contact me. Only last night I was notified by the email provider that as of  November 1st their service would no longer be free. Rather than pay $15 a year, I choose to switch. Since there seems to be no provision on the blender for changing the email address while leaving other information the same, I must , it appears, set up an entirely new account with a new screen name when I change email providers.<BR>
<BR>
My only concern is that if members of the blender seek to set standards, that they be both realistic and fair in doing so. Part of the fairness factor is consistency. Part of the realistic factor is in understanding that blenderites may from time to time find themselves in situations where they have no choice but to change screen names.<BR>
<BR>
Very Respectfully To All,<BR>
<BR>
little_blue_man<BR>
<BR>

<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=328">Rhetoric</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Tanq Cowboy ~<BR>
You are hilarious!! Your comment had me wondering if you are a comedian by trade.  Very clever and much needed comic relief.  I do think wounds can be healed over, somewhat, with a little giggle and snort!<BR>
<BR>
Vandalarious ~<BR>
It would be a disservice to only yourself if you left The Blender after yesterday's rumblings.  As a newbie to The Blender I haven't the knowledge or the inclination to get involved either - but the dynamic here is still the same.  It seemed that you wanted to become part of this "family", thus opening yourself up to all that any normal family endures. We are all human...and by nature of being we make mistakes and often say the wrong thing.  <BR>
<BR>
I too am guilty of placing MY values on little blue man (amongst others, I am sure) just a few short days ago. After I was very politely put in check, I gave 'the bluest among us' a sincere apology.  It was that simple.  Just as we must be open to praise, we cannot but allow that criticism will play a role as well.  I am prepared - doesn't mean I have to agree with the person, but giving them thier forum for editing and interpretation is a wonderful accompanyment to this site.  You are right blue man - we sometimes miss the target on poems submitted.  That is why responding to inncorrect interpretation is VITAL to those of us who aren't getting the full message.  <BR>
<BR>
I certainly don't want to grandstand with all this Political Correctness and band-aiding I hope to foster.  I am just a drone in this hive.  I post crap and gems, I think.  But then again, it is only the feeling of the writer that REALLY counts.  <BR>
<BR>
In the truest sense of it all, we should look to each other for inspiration and guidance.  If we, the most eloquent of humans (I think), cannot use language and words to come together - who will?<BR>
<BR>
Ok - enough of that from me.  I am a middle child - ALWAYS the peacemaker.<BR>
<BR>
Off again to peddle sushi to hungery Lawyers!!!<BR>
Rhetoric
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=367">lunaa</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Steph,<BR>
<BR>
Thank you that I could share my feelings with you, finally one who knows about I'm dreaming...Thank for encouraging me!<BR>
Big hugs<BR>
Lorena (lunaa)
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=407">hollymccormick</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Stephen and Galadrial - Thank's for the comments,makes me feel very welcome. I love to write and it's nice to finally have a place to go to to discuss them. Thank's again!!!<BR>
<BR>
P.S. Takes a-lot to scare me off....<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
Holly
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=19">Crystal</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

I just finished reading all the comments on this board and to be very honest...  *GALA* I always enjoy reading your work, I think that many people get jealous because most blenderites praise you.  I think all these angry comments are arrising because you hit a nerve with them, and out of pure embarassment that they have been caught praising their own work and called on it.  GO GALA!!!!! 
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=19">Crystal</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

WHOOOOOO.......The above comment was not directed to all those who have different screen names, only the ones that are giving themselves credit, so don't jump on me for agreeing with Gala. I have my opinion and everyone else has their's!
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=268">Misti</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

I'm going to address that remark, Crystal. I certainly don't want to "add fuel to the fire"...after all, this is a literary site, not a "war zone"...but no, I for one am not "jealous" (or envious) of Gala and the popularity/praise she so thoroughly enjoys at this particular community. More power to her. We're all human. We'll take gratification wherever we can find it. And no, for the umpteenth time, I do not create multiple identities to bolster my self-esteem. Believe me (or don't)...for all my "angst" and "drama" I am not that pathetic or needy. I have a husband who loves me and I have a life. This site is in no way the sole outlet for my creativity. <BR>
<BR>
These witch hunts are really getting tired. Try a new game.
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=16">kevin urenda</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

~sigh~
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=4">TJ Holland</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Woke up this morning at 6:10. Holy SHIT! I was supposed to be up by 4:30 to get ready for work and BE there at 6!! Man, talk about a crappy way to start the day...a hole shot right from the start. So, I run to 7-11 on may race to work, get in the car with my cuppa and spill the shit all over me!!! Sue their asses, that's what I should do..Jo Blo vs. McRaunchy's all over again. And I show up at 6:45 and it turns out that 3 of the 4 members in our squad showed up late!! DAMN! So, time to kiss ass with the squad boss. Gak! Heave! Try and be me today! C'mon, I DARE ya! LOL!! <BR>
<BR>
....so, have a VERY nice day, all of you! :-)<BR>
<BR>
(my attempt at changing the subject....)
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=8">Ali</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Tanq~<BR>
<BR>
You crack me up...That comment was great...=)<BR>
<BR>
Love and light, Ali
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=355">little_blue_man</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

"When it reaches a point where the people in this business start taking themselves that seriously, I'm gonna pack my bags and hit the highway."<BR>
<BR>
(David Lee Roth of Van Halen on the state of the music business in a 1985 MTV interview.)<BR>
<BR>
Oooops! Just dated myself for sure!
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=328">Rhetoric</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Madison ~<BR>
<a href="/blend/wv.cgi?id=2001.09.27.14.44.22866">in periwinkle</a> is delightful.  I heard rumblings because you weren't around - glad you decided to give The Ole Blender another little piece of you.<BR>
<BR>
Holly ~<BR>
Your postings are equally well done.  I think you have a fruitful pen these days!<BR>
<BR>
Bye Bye All,<BR>
Rhet<BR>

<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Holly?<BR>
<BR>
           You write strong, unadorned, and absolutely true.<BR>
Thank you girl. Been there, done that, using t-shirt to wax the car...<BR>
<BR>
           Brava.                      Gala
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=407">hollymccormick</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Galadrial -  I loved Unspoken. I have been searching for a poem that expresses my frustration with my current "beau" at his reluctance of saying what I need so desperately to hear. I have tried myself to put pen to paper on that particular si=ubject but always fall short. Thank you for expressing what I could not..<BR>
Holly
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Holly,<BR>
<BR>
        I have long nurtured the theory that the male folk were dropped on their heads at birth, as part of a secret ritual....Hang in there girl...and thanks.
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=34">Just Some Girl</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Madi:  Loved In Periwinkle. Glad you're back.
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=9">Madison</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Thank you much Rhetoric and Just Some Girl.  I've been terribly busy with no time to write or post or read.  Going to try to get back into the swing very soon.  (thanks again)
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=19">Crystal</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Misti...if you feel that my comment was directly attacking you, then there must be a reason why.  Do you not understand ENGLISH? This is what I said "WHOOOOOO.......The above comment was not directed to all those who have different screen names, only the ones that are giving themselves credit, so don't jump on me for agreeing with Gala. I have my opinion and everyone else has their's!"   Copy + Paste does wonders :)<BR>
  I admit I am very opinionated, but I am sorry I don't usually take statements one makes to me as personal attacks.  For everyone that is upset about my comment, I am sorry you are upset, but I am not going to apologize for making a statement.  I usually don't write on these boards alot because some people take things others say out of context.   There is no sense in arguing because my views are different from yours.  Misti, I like your work and just because I haven't commented on it doesn't mean that I disliked it.  I usually am tied up 24-7 and rarely get a chance to even post poetry on here anymore but it there are a few writer's that, I come and read everything that they write. Mainly, because they are not Egotistical, and hurtful with their words and because  their words usually touch me in a way as if they are looking into my heart.  
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=2">scqueen</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Well, put, Crystal. Exactly what I was trying to get across yesterday. Unfortunately the truth made me an enemy or two. 
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=226">gardenguru</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Every now and then, this wonderful forum that Kirk has created erupts into some kind of intense debate.<BR>
<BR>
I've been known to jump into one or two and I can't help but jump into this one.<BR>
<BR>
This is certainly an artistic gathering and along with that, I would think, come egos.  Some of the cocky type and some of the more vulnerable type (that's two; there's probably more).<BR>
<BR>
And that reminds me of what some great producer said when putting together that first gathering of great pop singers for "We Are the World" a gazillion years ago: "Leave your egos at the door."<BR>
<BR>
This IS, I am told, a PUBLIC forum, a place whereby YOU -- the editorial "you" -- post something and I (and the editorial OTHERS) are allowed (maybe even obliged) to comment.  I am not one that holds to the belief "if ya ain't got nuttin' good ta say, don't say nuttin'!" -- except, of course, in less public circumstances.<BR>
<BR>
I used to think that most members within this club were not only open to CONSTRUCTIVE criticism, they actually encouraged it.  Of course, we all have our definition of "contructive" criticism, don't we?  It comes in all levels and styles and that's just the way it is; we're not  diplomacy robots.  Some sounds brutal to some and some take it with a grain of salt.  Nobody here is out to squash your little heart.<BR>
<BR>
"In my own opinion" (a dumb cliche but it makes for a good cya), this forum would not have the life and joy and passion it has if we all just patted each other on the back.<BR>
<BR>
I think I may have suggested this in a post many moons ago:  if you don't want other Blenderites commenting negatively on your posted poetry/prose (and maybe if you don't even want anyone commenting on your comments, for gosh' sake)  put up some kind of flag, symbol, icon, or such -- something to let the rest of us know that your work is not open to criticism.  Or we can take a vote and choose whether "bad" critiques are allowed or not in this forum.  Or leave it up to Kirk to make this decision (I'm being silly with most of this, Kirk).  Or, best yet, write your poetic, romantic heart out in a personal diary and keep it under your pillow.<BR>
<BR>
If you're compelled to share your writings with "friends", investigate the sharing format first -- you may find that not everyone is your "pat-you-on-the-back" friend in many forums (including this one).<BR>
<BR>
No folks, I'm not being ugly.  You may wish to escalate this to some "cold, nasty" ramblings.  But it's not.  I'm being very matter of fact.  And the "you" in all of this is the editorial you -- I'm targeting no one specifically.<BR>
<BR>
Now to specifics.  Yep, "stinking fish" was a husky metaphor.  But I was inclined to believe that the poster felt strongly about the idea of multiple id's and wanted to make a point.  I don't know the poster and, therefore, have no reason to "defend a friend".<BR>
<BR>
This forum has had SERIOUS problems with those using multiple id's and that's put some of us on edge.  Even the "innocent" who use it for "fun" certainly can't think that others might not find it "awkward" at best and "disturbing" at worst.  Maybe it's like romance -- there's a difference between making romance fun (and vice versa) and playing games.  I'm one to think that romance is at it's VERY best when each party is straightforward.  And, to put it bluntly, fxxk nom de plumes  -- leave them to professionals (dead and alive) and their professional reasons for using them.<BR>
<BR>
I kind of think the "stinking fish" comment was the primary "SO WHAT" here.  It was the escalation, not the initial comment, that turned this forum upside-down.<BR>
<BR>
There really is a difference between disagreeing and being disagreeable.<BR>
<BR>
Next?<BR>
<BR>
Joe (aka gardenguru)
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=404">Arwen</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

New gal obliviously flinging compliments.... Squeen- Thank you so much for the welcome and the nice compliment. Rhet,(may I call you rhet?)Absolutely LOVED Red Hots, Spicy! Not sure who wrote the Candy Cane piece- but that one was yummy as well. Kevin Urenda- Grail was beautiful, doesn't everyone want to find love like that? Great piece. Michael T.- I'm a sinner struck a chord, big time for me. Madison- Periwinkle was great! I have been a fan for a while, when I grow up can I write like you?  Lyrical as always. Galadrial-A heart apart- Fabulous, You never o dissappoint. Tanqueray Cowboy-Thanks for posting he C.S. Lewis quote. He is one of my favorites. Also for the Cure lyrics a while back.<BR>
K- I will quit now. 
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=5">jackryhme</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

lol and to think people still watch soaps  lol  still all in all i gota love this place cause its too rich and REAL<BR>
<BR>
and my two cents on my multi, heh  i think i have more alter's than any here... well pretty sure, I do it for an honest opinion ... and umm  i think i change  each time my male pms kicks in as well  heh well  sorta<BR>
<BR>
luv <BR>
jack
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=355">little_blue_man</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

***stephen*****<BR>
Thank you for your comment on Raggedy Ann. Glad to know that someone noticed it before the war got started. Kinda got buried in everything, huh? 
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=4">TJ Holland</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Joe (gardenguru) ~ loved your comment!<BR>
<BR>
                   HUZZAH!!!! WITNESS!!!<BR>
<BR>
                       (that's a GOOD thing)<BR>
<BR>
-Teej
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=2">scqueen</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Jack ~ Not to worry...you've never denied your multiple names nor have you played nasty games. Keep posting please :-)
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Aw Jack, I just check the day of the week. Mondays, it doesn't matter, Tuesdays, you're grey skies, and so forth!<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
                                           Gala
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Arwen....<BR>
<BR>
           Molasses Night...yummmmmmmmmy.<BR>
<BR>
And Hi Madi...<BR>
<BR>
           We are ready to put out an APB! Welcome back...with all the usual flare, I see.
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=2">scqueen</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Arwen is just the coolest name...
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=404">Arwen</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Grey skies/Jack rhyme/???- Please do not stop posting here.  I have been inspired by your writing quite a few times over the past few months. I have always looked for your name/s when reading. Gala- thank you so much.  Compliments from somone who writes so beautifully, you just made my week. And Scqueen, You are just the nicest. Finally finished Lord of the Rings, again (3rd time) Galadrial was already taken, and couldn't remember Eeowyns-(sp?) name for the life of me. Plus, I was fresh out of other pithy ideas.  <BR>
Does anyone have any suggestions for a great read?  I love to read anything I can get my hands on, but have run through my favorite authors, dag nabbit.Plus it is starting into the rainy season here in the great northwest...Help Anyone??? anyone???
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=10">Galadrial</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Arwen...<BR>
<BR>
           If you haven't tried her yet, I adore Marion Zimmer Bradley...or Anne Mc Caffrey's Dragon Rider series...<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
                                    Gala The Librarian
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=254">chris</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Aw baby...you're cooking again. Don't make me hungry like that! <BR>
<BR>
Did someone say something about good reads? Two words: 'Naked Lunch'. A classic all around. William S. Burroughs--the best Beat writer to ever come out of Kansas.
<HR>
From: <a href="/blend/av.cgi?id=254">chris</a><BR>
Date: 27 September 2001<P>

Oh! Arwen, some good lines in that poem-- <BR>
<BR>
"Sugared time,<BR>
heady sustenance,<BR>
swallowed <BR>
greedily,<BR>
by a rushing dawn."<BR>
<BR>
Nice... Good to see you here.
<HR>