Dan,
What a genuinely nice and insightful post.
Thank You!
I am truly pleased if my being and sometimes stressing the fact that I am a 'durn for'ner might contribute something back to you guys.
Yes, I feel 'foreign per se'. Always have. It is for most parts not a problem. This was actually the first web forum I have attended and I remember a few times during the first year when I was surprised how aggressive some posters responded. However, since then I have adjusted myself in part but I also feel that this forum in general has become a more benevolent place this last year.
I am fully enjoying myself here now and time spent here is both entertaining, inspiring and educational - as this thread is proof of.