Thanks for your comment, Bob. I don't know Canada's official feelings on the Snowden case, either. I was referring to Russia's anti-gay law, which appears to try to protect minors until they're old enough to make up their own minds, and I think that is not a bad idea. Too many schools here are forced to teach philosophies that are against the beliefs of parents, and as a result, home schooling and private Christian schools are becoming more and more popular. Our public school system is failing in its responsibility to citizens, I believe, in an effort to become all inclusive and too liberal, too politically correct, and missing the point when a vocal minority is able to push aside dissenting and perhaps less radical views.

Yes, I have mixed feelings on home schooling, too. Here the children are supplied gym and other activities with other home schooled children in an outside environment to supplement their home schooling, and extracurricular activities are encouraged. It does depend on the parent, and some children do better than others with it, but socialization, I think, could be a problem.

I do know of at least one home schooled child who was of normal intelligence but could not write his name when he was twelve.

Private Christian schools also tend to be insular and exclusive, some to the point of being elitist and judgmental, but again, a lot depends on the home environment and the attitude of the parent.

I don't agree with gay propaganda to minors or exposure to gay philosophy to minors. I believe the nuclear family should be respected and encouraged and children are not old enough for critical thinking on a subject that is so emotionally charged for some people, and having to do with sexuality and gender identity.

Having said that, I believe in gay rights and equal rights, human rights it's called here in Canada, and I support that, but not to the extent that a minority can have its own way, as some fundamentalists would insist on in schools and politics, and I suppose gay pride is simply a reaction to that.

It's a sticky wicket as the English would say. I don't support boycotting the Olympics for any reason.

I consider myself a "friend of Dorothy" but certainly stand as an independent thinker in all things.

Judi's been having some problems with arm pain. She's busy with doctor and Physio appointments, but seems well otherwise.