I don’t usually reply to comments on my blogs. Although I will respond to a direct question or add information that I think is needed, I try to stay out of the fray once I’ve introduced a topic. But I don’t want anyone to think I am ignoring them. I appreciate those comments very much. In fact, I think it’s often the comments that make the blogs interesting.

My hope is that the discussions will become more illuminating as more points of view are expressed, and that readers will benefit from the exchange of ideas. In my mind’s eye, I see an online version of the salons they used to have back in the days before television put an end to conversation. And I have not been disappointed.

Thankfully, I can count on a few faithful readers to expand on my thoughts, to add germane information, or to set me straight when I wander from the path of logic. And there are always newcomers who add valuable insights and information to the discussions. I might be prejudiced but I think I get the best comments on the web. Most of the comments on the other blogs that I visit from time to time seem emotional and illogical. They’re often just reiterations of “talking points” handed down by the PR pros, and sometimes they’re downright vulgar and obscene. But the comments I get tend to take the high ground.

We might sometimes disagree but we always manage to disagree agreeably. And I think that’s the hallmark of civilized conversation.

So here’s to the readers who take the time to comment! You’re the greatest!