D. Stussy wrote:

So, basically, calling someone a "ham" is the same as calling them a retard
at worst, and at best, acknowledging their irrelevant self-importance in
thinking that they know what they're doing (whether they do or not).


I are a Ham!


Your interpretation of Ham is fine for you, but by no means universal.

Allow a similar case.

Navy Seal's are proud to call themselves Seals, but when some people
think of seals, they think of the circus clown animals. Yet the Navy
Seals are some of the roughest toughest guys around. If I were a seal,
I'd be proud to be called one

I'm a Ham, I'm pleased as punch to be called a Ham.

It isn't a bad actor
It isn't a Piece of pork.

It is a licensed radio amateur.


While we are at it, there are those who find the term "Amateur"
demeaning, as if it is sub par relative of a radio professional. Or that
what we do is Amateurish. Amateur and Amateurish are two completely
different things, although apparently not to some.

How about a new reference name for the service


So what do *you* want to be called?

As for me, I am a Ham, and happy to be called one.

- 73 de Mike N3LI -