Barbara Wilson-Clay's post on how best to get a message across is all too true. Maybe we just need to exchange the snappy comebacks amongst ourselves for the emotional release so we will be able to be diplomatic out loud and outwardly. That said, I find that if I can make the snappy line be one that pokes more fun at myself than at the Other, it seems to work well. If we can both relax while laughing at something in me that reminds them of themself, it also unites us. And sometimes, there is really no hope of making someone an ally, nor should there be, and those snappy replies are just SO satisfying for such situations. cheers Rachel Myr Kristiansand, Norway *********************************************** To temporarily stop your subscription: set lactnet nomail To start it again: set lactnet mail (or digest) To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet All commands go to [log in to unmask] The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html