This is my first posting, but I've been observing for a while. Nalora, I'm so glad you decided to come back! It is obvious that you are very loved and wanted here, and that you are a major contributer. Too often, the passing on of knowledge, feelings, and facts goes by the way side in favor of not offending anyone. I feel that it is a greater sacrifice for all to remain ignorant to avoid offending a few. I understand the 'pauses' that you speak of. I hope that what has been going on here does not lenghthen those pauses. We all benefit and learn more from more information and stories put forth, than we do from the careful choosing of words and holding back. I hope that if you have to choose between teaching and informing, or trying not to displease people, that you will choose in favor of knowledge. I also hope that in the future I will have something truly useful to contribute to this list. Sandi syd@rmi.net