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I'd like to express my feelings in light of the song I just posted. I enjoy a rousing debate as much as anyone; I've participated in some myself. Everyone likes to see commentary to their stories. My hope is that we remember that behind each story, each tale, each blog, beats the heart of a human being with feelings. Most of the time, we are aware of that, and we give complements - "Hey..that's fascinating," or "Great start, I can see this is going to be really good," or even, "Lot's of promise...good beginning."

Sometimes we get caught up in the details of the story so much we occasionally miss the big picture; a kind and tender moment between a parent and a child is lost in the discovery of a misspelled word or misplaced phrase. A error in description becomes more important than the fear and dread of the girl who must tell her parents she's transgendered. A mistaken description becomes more important than the loss of innocence or the discovery of a new friend. We certainly don't mean to say things that are unkind or even just dismissive, but that's what happens on occasion. I seldom have had this happen, but I have seen it take place where another author's wonderful story might have a few comments on the character development or the compelling plot, but quite a few more on some minutia that becomes so large as to overshadow the complements. Erin has encouraged us more than once to think before we submit.

It's really alright to identify or help an author with some grammar or fact, but it really should be reserved for a personal message. Heaven knows I can use all the help I can get. I recommend that if there's something that you really want to say about a story that really needs attention, write the author in a note and begin a discussion. I was glad for a note Lia sent to me regarding my Beatles takeoff, and I edited it to include her suggestions ...she sent me a note.

Why not leave the commentary up front for debate regarding subjects discussed in blogs, and even then, be aware of what you say and how it might affect others. And please, if you like a story, identify what it is you saw...what touched you...which character made you angry or cry...how the story reached you. And tell the author thank you. A compliment will go a long way in encouraging any of us here that we are making a difference. All my thanks and love to all of you who read and write here and all of you here who work to make it possible. This place rocks, as Christelle reminded me the other day!