[fellowtraveler]

Originally Posted by Revolution

By the way Fellow Traveller your post was most intriging. I've always been taught that only those with love and kindness can posses certain ... talents.

At the root, we may all be standing in a pool of love - but the stinking haze of self-gratification and selfishness can hover close above it.

Originally Posted by Revolution

I believe it is unwise for anyone to claim that they are Masters.

You believe there are none, or that it is unwise for them to reveal themselves? Later on you say you've met some...or is that, umm..see below...

Originally Posted by Revolution

You see, my preferred approach is to speak with authority. As if I really know what I'm talking about. Weather I really do or not is up to you to decide. But I just think it sounds more interesting to hear someone make a clear cut statement rather than the usual "do you think..." "how about you guys" "I think" "I suspect" etc etc.

I assume that does not extend to spelling? (Sorry, don't get angry - I couldn't resist.) Interesting, yes. Attention-getting? Sure thing. Facilitating of real communication? Naw. But at least you give a heads-up: "Warning: Possible ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ Ahead". I wonder how the discourse in here would change if resumes or manifestos were required...

Originally Posted by Revolution

It seems to me like you only get respect when you play by others' rules.

So who needs respect?

Originally Posted by Revolution

All I am saying is don't feel you have to be so kind as to surround your self with people who secrety don't give a damn about you. If they try to manipulate and control you (this can be subtle so watch out) then they are stifling your freedom and your growth. So, if you can't find like minded people then don't be afraid to live by your self. Trying to "heal" others who are simply not ready or willing is a fools game.

Hey, I'm with you - I'm as close to a herrnit as you can get and still walk in the world. But the above sounds like a position of weakness. You can and should be manipulating them. As long as you're doing them no real harm. I sometmes feel as you describe, but in every case it eventually feels like giving up.

For instance, if I meet a boastful, obnoxious braggart...do I show my disgust, or do I nod my head a lot, show my utter admiration for his prowess, grease him 'til he stands taller than a wedding-night erection, and get him to do what I want? I often do the latter, and laugh up my sleeve.

Originally Posted by Revolution

I believe everyone should have the right to arrive at the truth in their own way. Who is someone else to tell you what you should or shouldn't be doing?

True dat.