Welcome back my friends to the show that never ends. We're so glad you could attend, come inside, come inside…... Come inside, the show's about to start. Guaranteed to blow your head apart. Rest assured you'll get your money's worth; the greatest show in Heaven, Hell or Earth. You've got to see the show; it's a dynamo - You've got to see the show….. (Emerson, Lake and Palmer 1973)

This column isn't quite the show that Keith Emerson, Greg Lake and Carl Palmer had in mind when they penned Karn Evil 9, and writers are not rock stars; though the more infamous scribes certainly reap the benefits of the notoriety and celebrity associated with such. Despite my best efforts, I don't fall into the category of infamous at this time; but I'm working on it, and I do view this humble weekly discourse as a show of sorts.

I've never been compelled to write a column expounding upon the intent of a previous work, but there's a first time for everything and this seems to be the time to pursue this particular endeavor.

Last week's column, On the Fringe – Peering Over The Edge, elicited some interesting comments, as I fully expected it would. I would have been shocked and rather disappointed had that not been the case. You see, as a columnist, it's my job to provoke reader response; to stir their emotions; to make them think, or laugh, or cry; to entertain; to shake it up a little – so I guess I can claim victory to that end, as this particular column did many of those things. My in-box was flooded with emails; some from those of you who had read my column and loved it and others from those who were perplexed as to what it was that I was attempting to say. Some even hated it!

My friend, Karen McSherry, emailed me late last week after having read my column and, rather than lavishing me with the usual accolades, she asked, "What's the point? Did I miss something?" She also expressed that, although she had enjoyed my other columns, this one was not one of her favorites.

I explained to Karen that there was nothing she had overlooked; that it was merely an interactive experience; entertainment; no deep philosophical truths lurking between the lines; no salient points.

My mission was to explore my creativity, have some fun – perhaps a little craziness - and provide the reader with some entertainment for entertainment's sake -nothing more.

Another good friend, Janice Nolen, one of the many ladies from EWOT who did such a great job at the Holiday Breakfast last Sunday, commented that she thought my commentary was good, but too long because of all the links, an issue exacerbated by the fact that she had read it late in the evening when she was extremely tired.

Jasmine said, "LOL....Loved it! I swear some times I think you're in my head!" I'm worried about you, Jasmine, but thanks for the vote of confidence.

Jess Schumann, Programming Director for ECAT, thought it was, "Very cool." Speaking of ECAT – if you've ever wanted to be a part of a local TV news magazine program, this is your opportunity to do just that. The Easton Dig is looking for volunteers to help produce short videos about sports, politics and local culture, for Easton Cable and the web. The first meeting will be held on January 4^th. Whether you're a wannabe TV reporter, writer, cameraman, or whatever; this is your opportunity to take that leap of faith and explore your creative side. No experience is necessary, so what are you waiting for? Call (508) 230-7200 today!

Other comments about last week's column included……

"Now I know what's going on in your head."  

"I've paid big money and not been entertained like this."

"….hated it!"

"This one was the best you've ever done."

…...and my favorite, "You sir, are one warped individual." I'm not sure what this lady meant by that, but I'll take it as a compliment.

People reacted! How they reacted is irrelevant. They took the time, made the effort to read and comment. What's important is that they were intellectually and emotionally stimulated.

Our diversity; our differences make Easton the great place that it is. We all have different likes and dislikes – different interests – different skill sets.

Different strokes for different folks! That's what makes Easton and the world the amazing places they are. Embrace the diversity! Experience something new! Live the gift that is life!

I would be remiss if I didn't take the time to thank Patch.com and particularly my editor, Pat Maguire, for the opportunity to ply my craft on these pages; to express my creativity - unfettered.

I've had editors in the past, while working as a reporter, who have chopped my work to pieces until it was unrecognizable as my own, and for no apparent reason other than their own personal ego-stroking.

Writing, and in particular writing a column, is a creative art. A columnist is not reporting facts, but expressing opinion – weaving a tale – hopefully entertaining.

So, thanks to Patch and to Pat for allowing me the latitude to be me.

And to you, the reader; thanks for reading and moreover thanks for responding. I appreciate it more than you'll ever know.