11 Comments
User's avatar
⭠ Return to thread
Alexandra Sokoloff's avatar

That's absurdly flattering, Pat Cole! I hang out here because the level of dialogue amongst the commenters, including you, rises to the level HCR is achieving with her historical analysis. I used to be able to talk politics and political action with friends and readers on Facebook but the Zuck has shut down any amplification of political posts (at least leftist political posts). I've been so grateful to find that political analysis here!

And I'm here listening and looking for more ways to engage social and political action (and simple compassion) through my fiction. I have way more training and tools to reach people through novels and film. And that's my living, so there's that!

How long have you been in this forum?

Expand full comment
Pat Cole's avatar

As my plane descended into Binh Hoa in 1971, I witnessed the marvel of grass huts surrounded by sandbags. From then to now I have been in this forum. While I had nothing to say as I hid in the darkness for years, HCR appeared on my Facebook. I had no idea who she was but she made sense. When I dumped “Zuck” I got the bright idea to search the ether. There I found this enclave. The people here are the Americans. Jan. will make two years. The voices here on LFAA reassure me of the survival of the American intellect.

Expand full comment
Barbara Keating's avatar

Pat, agree! Reasoned dialog with intelligent, thoughtful folks….maybe of nuanced or differing opinions, but willing to share, listen, learn and amend ones’ stance if the evidence so indicates. Love HCR’s Substack, but equally love the dialog of the commenters in response/and in reply to listed comments. Maybe a sort of internet ‘Salon’ of the type held in days gone by.

Expand full comment
Daniel Streeter, Jr's avatar

To my friends whom I am yet to meet, Alexandra, Pat and Barbara, I most enjoyed your little colloquy as I cruised through Heather's excellent post this evening and the comments thereafter. I agree with all of you, and wish you all a good night!

Expand full comment
Alexandra Sokoloff's avatar

YES! Exactly: "The voices here on LFAA reassure me of the survival of the American intellect."

Expand full comment
Jen Schaefer's avatar

You just spoke my heart. This often feels like a lifeboat in a sea of absurdity, living in the dystopia of Florida as I do. Thank you.

Expand full comment
Carol T Cox (NJ to VA to FL)'s avatar

You couldn't have said it better, Jen: "the dystopia of Florida," where I live as well. I am deeply grateful for HCR and this group of people who remind me that I am in a sane world, after all.

Expand full comment
Mimi's avatar

I begin my day at 5 AM by walking my dog through a still sleeping midwestern neighborhood. Then I come home, open my laptop, and read HCR's posting for the day, which wakens my mind. Then when I read the comments, I feel my blood begin to stir: the lively, intelligent, back and forth discussion of the day's issues. Finally, I am fully awake, glad and grateful to be present among others with bright minds and good sense.

Expand full comment
Bill Alstrom (MAtoMainetoMA)'s avatar

Same process here in New England. Dog on chest at dawn. Face licks. Best alarm clock ever. Walk her, appreciate the quiet, feed her, pour coffee, open Chromebook. Right to LFAA.

And this forum has indeed become my "social media". Grateful I am.

Expand full comment
Ally House (Oregon)'s avatar

Thankfully, my cats don’t need a morning walk. I arise between 5 and 6, brew a short pot (2 large cups consumed in an insulated cup) and read LFAA. This has become a community, one which has been a lifeline of information, thought, humor, and knowledge.

Expand full comment
Nancy Proctor's avatar

I often read Dr. Richardson first and then walk my big dog in my Midwestern city. Your approach makes more sense. I would get more of the excellent comments that way.

Expand full comment