I've never once doubted your compassion or sense of empathy Reg. They're what make you the person (and erudite poster) you are.

In this world full of people who really are up against the wall through no fault of their own: Darfur, Gaza, Iraq- the Ed Browns of the world seem to be victims of self-inflicted wounds.

Ed's has had it relatively good here, which is not to say that there aren't plenty of things here that need changing, but being a tax rebel because you think you should be free to opt off the grid- without actually opting off the grid- doesn't evoke much sympathy from me at least.

I still can't say that I fully understand the depth of your feeling about this particular situation but I still respect your point of view and your willingness to continue to explore and articulate it.