Posted by pancho (148.244.221.195) on November 25, 2001 at 11:35:02:
I have a difficult time understanding or respecting people who write under assumed names. I can well understand that our families dont appreciate what we do or say and the kinds of scurrilous attacks we open ourselves up to. I also find it hard to believe that Iraqi agents are combing the woods here looking for us...though I am bound to admit they could make it rough on any family we have back there.
I also recognize that these are great excuses and places to hide for those who are merely afraid of a rolling pin or frying pan upside their heads...or who still behave as if they were making dirty little anonymous phone calls.
I especially have a hard time with people who are clearly comfortable with the English language or show in other ways that they have little to fear from secret agents or foreign retribution, but still hide who they are. I dont feel like engaging them in conversation, though they are as welcome as the rest of us. Sparkling wit, or funny dialogue is not what I am looking for at least...I do it myself often enough, but only with those who have names they arent ashamed of or who got over being afraid of the dark.
I believe Iraqi has some creditable reason to stay anonymous...the rest, I dont know. Please dont feel offended...you have your reasons for using fake names, and I have mine for not wanting to engage you in conversation. That I dont argue with you, which I would do...using you to bounce your own heads off of, should indicate that we are essentially in agreement, except for the fact that I am willing to go the limit...and you are not.