I used "feminized" deliberately. Not as a slur on women (all love and respect!) but to impugn the masculinity of men who would support the fascist protector state.

If you use feminization to impugn men, then does that not imply that being feminine is, by definition, somehow less than desirable?

My siblings and I were raised in a household run by a woman who was (and still is) stronger than any man we've ever had in our lives. The masculine 'protectors' pretty much abdicated, so (your respect noted) I think that what is needed is perhaps a better balance between the hyper-masculinism of the authority-seekers, and their feminine side, which you, and a lot of others, seem to think is somehow lacking.

It's not really about raised hackles (although it is frustrating to be minimized on the basis of gender), it's about how language is used and the lingering prejudices that such usage propagates. Your intent was not malicious, but it was stereotypical.

Glorious Girl - Bebop-o: you unnerve me deeply. Please, enough with the acid-casualty prose. It hurts my brain.

Give B some time. He will grow on you. Yes, sometimes his writing contains pain, just as life can sometimes hurt. But his words also contain wonder, joy and a keen observation of what is beautiful in life as well. Believe me when I say that Bebop has enriched the lives of just about everyone here who reads his words with patience and an open mind.

I really didn't think you were the 'letter gestapo'. They've been here and they have a different feel/sound.

Then he opens his mouth and his eyes have that wild, faraway look and you know that you're more alone than ever and there's no way you're getting in the car with him.

Maybe I have an advantage because I have looked into B's eyes. They're not wild or faraway at all. In fact, they are more present and humane than many people I know better and trust less.

so if I fail to make my point, it's my writing that sucks.

A common problem with writing on the internet. I know that, at times, I've often fallen far short in my communications here in the past. One of the nicest things about this comment section is how there is always someone out there who intuits what I've been trying to convey, no matter how inept, and who will either help me out, or just outright say it better.

I'm sorry B's prose makes you lonely. He is one of the most inclusive and welcoming people I know.

If it happened elsewhere, it would be considered a dictatorial power grab.

The recent example of Pakistan and Musharaff's actions prove your point. Even Bush and other administration voices were forced to make lukewarm admonishments that must have stuck in their craws since he was only exercising the same powers they aspire to.

Glorious Girl - I can personally attest to the fact that B is absolutely fantastic with even the most obnoxious of cats (my Seth, who dearly loves to ambush anyone who comes in our front door) and even charmed Lily, my extremely shy Siamese, who never comes out when strangers are in the house.

His sweet odes to the joys of his granddaughter convince me that he is probably a wonder with kids as well. I am not convinced that I could properly care for children, but B is that most rare of adults, one who still understands the wonder of existence that is a child's world.

A maha-atma, even through the veil of language.

Yes. It absolutely astonished me how easily my Czech-born (english as second - or 3rd or 4th - language) husband 'heard' through the 'veil'. It was like they were old souls separated at birth. ;->

Well, must load up the covered wagon and head toward the homefront for the holiday. Will check back in later.

How do you describe a man who has abdicated his masculine role, responsibility, duty?

Oh, I have words for that, but I try not to use them in polite company. ;->

They are graspers and takers, users and abusers. They are arrogant, selfish, evil, pompous chest-beaters. They are the epitome of the entitled, self-proclaimed authoritarian daddy culture - and they are not all men, either. And you are correct that they will destroy the planet rather than allow anyone else to enjoy the advantages they have amassed for themselves.

That is why Glenn, and the others out there in his corner, are so critical now. They are spearheading a new awareness that will help to educate folks about what is happening. It's already having an effect.

Santa's helpers had a long night on the assembly line, and the fat man himself waltzed across the back porch pretty early this morning so the little ones would know he had, indeed, been there. So now it's time for good coffee, breakfast and shrieks of joy and wonder.

On this day, recognized by the religion of my own particular clan, I wish everyone peace and joy. Now I'm going to spend some time remembering what it was like to be young enough to still believe in Santa and peace on earth.

Pedinska, now be a little baby and go sit on Santa's lap.

Had to help Santa get his padding, and lap, in the right place this morning. It's kinda funny how many people (and cameras) it takes to get Santa dressed these days. Oh, and Rudolph morphed into a German short-haired pointer. ;->

It was well worth it to see the look on my nephew's face when he caught Santa going down the back steps. These reminders of the wonders of childhood are truly priceless.

For those who enjoy Christmas carols, here's one that's most unusual and entertaining:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8

Straight No Chaser singing 12 days.

Enjoy!