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        Please.  We can get past this.  We simply have to.
        Does it matter that the word "girl," at one time, was
genderless--had the accepted, agreed upon meaning of being ANY child? Of
course it matters, but perspective is everything.
        Regarding perspectives about (hu)mankind, the underlying question
lies in whether it may be reasonable and acceptable to always see "man" as
ONLY meaning males, thus inherently slighting some portion of the race when
not strictly pertaining only to males.  The simple answer can be gleaned
from the statement that I am sometimes gay.  I hold the right to make that
statement, with the knowledge and awareness that I have absolutely no
intent to shock or offend ANYONE and with the knowledge and awareness that,
blameless, I thus owe no explanation or apology to anyone.
        A mature and responsible individual will take proper care in what
they may conclude from any statement.  And the notion that one must be
accountable for the interpretations of those who lack the proper maturity
or responsibility to consider one's statement with due care is simply
preposterous.
        This predisposition to vilifying others' intent parallels the
ironic argument which finds Twain's HUCKLEBERRY FINN being censored for the
presence of the word "nigger," though it is evident that Twain's purpose
and intent were in no way derogatory toward anyone, based upon their skin
tone.  In point of fact, his novel's message offered a wonderfully strong
and progressive statement in SUPPORT of reasoned equality.  Huck Finn was
literally determined to go to Hell (which may be in Michigan), if you'll
recall, rather than deny his friendship and allegiance to Jim.  It would
have mattered not a bit to Huck if Jim might have been labelled bigger,
nigger or tigger!  Nor did it matter to Jim as far as that friendship was
concerned.
        Thus, I will unflinchingly likewise go to Hell with all such
reasoning men, if it otherwise means the word "man" is to be forcibly and
wholly "masculated."
        Insisting on interpreting (dictating) others' communication intent
is linguistic hostage-taking.  And regardless of the libelous criminality
reflected through that act, it should be avoided, simply, as the self
destructive, self-isolating act it is.  It is tragic when individuals elect
to ascribe divisiveness in others, even as they vigorously announce it in
and of themselves.
        After all, where would we be without simple, basic intercourse, eh?
        Take care.

Jeff Kirkpatrick

*****
        We may never control others' foolishness, but we might work to
manage our own.

Jeffrey E. Kirkpatrick
Profession: adventurer
Present Occupation: Self deployed
e-mail address: jeffkirk@sni.net

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