Avram, I’m enjoying reading your posts, and find myself agreeing with your approach, to try to look at things positively. To further address Ubiquitin’s question to me earlier, I would hope that I would do the same if the shoe was on the other foot, but as a human being, I’ll admit that it certainly comes more naturally to me to defend a community with which I more closely identify.
I just want to add, on a personal note, that DaMoshe sent me a message (through his friend with whom I occasionally communicate through email) that his invitation to me was sincere (which I hadn’t doubted). At this point, it’s not really feasible for me to accept, which I (and he) feel bad about, but I think it brings out an important point which has been mentioned before, but bears repeating.
In the CR, it’s all talk and few deeds, no facial expression, and no tone of voice which can express warmth and friendship.
So all we’re left with is discussion and debate, and that can lead to misunderstanding and hard feelings.
Real life, though, is about so much more than hashkofos, debating skills, and writing ability. I don’t think different hashkofos are a barrier to getting along or even to being close (and certainly not different attire!). I think had I been able to accept his kind invitation, we’d have a good time together.
I think true ahavas Yisroel doesn’t require that we agree with each other, or even (and I think DaMoshe might still disagree with me about this) respect each other’s hashkofos. We do need to respect each other, though, and this respect can lead to friendship and love, even while maintaining disagreement.
Thank you, DaMoshe.