I fear that the nashing of teeth and rending of garments over this subject may lead to the administrators having to police this kind of thread. Sad, because so often people in need have been helped on this forum. Sad still, somebody always puts up this question and gets us into the discussion about whether or not it is appropriate.

I think Stan's initial disapointment was unfortunate. But as I myself did not even see the thread untill it was up for five days, perhaps the explanation for the initial low response can be found there. The darn forum keeps resetting hence his plea was buried. Once the discussion got hot and frequent the response was overwhelming.

Meanwhile we are debating the worthiness of someone asking for help. Why? A newbie might come on and try a scam thing, how many people would say "excuse me I don't know you." Justifiable question. I doubt they would get much help. Lots of advice maybe, but not much money.

But with someone who has been here for more than a year, and frequently posts, there should be a comfort level that would inspire some confidence.

Please don't make it more difficult for someone in need to ask. It is really quite simple, if you don't want to give, or simply can't, fine. Not one person here has the right to judge that. Why worry.

If you can then, do.

In truth there is no protection from sending your money down a hole. Give at church, give at the office, give to a panhandler on the street. A free right you have to chose for yourself.

But don't choose for me.

Sadly, Stan has to wonder what he started. I'm sure it wasn't his intention to put a riff between anybody. So, in the spirit of charity and good will, please......LET IT GO!

franc