I first learned about the gift that keeps on giving when Kevin Levin mentioned it on his Civil War Memory blog. Over time I saw that some of its members were engaged in posting various exchanges on other blogs. I thought much of what I read was absurd; a good deal of the remainder was typical of a certain mindset. At times I think it presented an easy target, and I admit that’s seductive. So I’ve given it some attention here (not nearly as much as some might assume) while I frame other blog posts (and do other things); in one case, however, what happens there did give rise to an inquiry into something I do find interesting, the role of violence in disputed elections during Reconstruction (I note that when I highlight “real” history, those people who want me to post just about “real” history often don’t respond).
Now comes word from Connie Chastain that the gift that keeps on giving isn’t really all that important, anyway. She observes:
“It’s not like the group has any sway in the greater scheme of things. — If anyone wants to show me the sway/pull/influence this group has had I’ll be happy to look. But I don’t see how it has influenced the outcome of many events and issues discussed there, from the Lexington flag case to the Reidsville monument, to the Shreveport flag removal, to the Texas SCV license plate issue.”
Moreover …
“Some people use it to post or read about heritage issues around the country, but clearly, most activity on the group’s page comprises the airing and sharing of personal opinions.”
So, Connie concludes …
“It has little to no power or influence. Another statement I believe is true but that others may disagree with. I would be delighted to see evidence that proves me wrong. But the fact is, even the group’s founder has admitted on several occasions that what we’re doing isn’t working.”
In other words, it’s much ado about nothing. Thus …
“None of what I describe and acknowledge here is intended as disrespect of the group, or the efforts of its members. In fact, I was a member of that group until a few hours ago, glad to be a part of it, and hopeful that the efforts of the SHPG, and all other heritage preservation and defense efforts, would eventually see a rising tide of success.”
You read that right. Connie Chastain has “seceded” from the gift that keeps on giving. As she adds …
“I know that my own personal efforts — this blog and my proSouthern novels — also have little to no power or influence.”
On that we agree.
Boy, a lot can happen on Friday the 13th.
Crossroads 
Believe it when you (don’t) see it !! 🙂
Jubal Early is weeping somewhere.
Brooks,
Have you been invited to join Connie Chastain’s new Facebook Group? I have. Jealous?? LOL
http://www.facebook.com/groups/345813525448421/
Here is the link…I find it interesting that one of her first members is good ole Michael Hill of the League of the South.
Corey
I wish her all the best in her new endeavor.
She still seems to be confused between Southern and Confederate heritage. Same day as she created the site, she took a swipe at Kevin and his fellow travellers 😉
Brooks, you’re fixated on her, I’ve observed. Should I be jealous?
Your feelings are your affair. I find her amusing most of the time, bitter and a bit ugly some of the time, as when she claimed that a family picture featuring some of Silas Chander’s descendants was photoshopped, as she put it. Often I let her speak for herself, and that’s good enough. I’ve never detected that ugly strain in you. I appreciate your creativity and (at times) your style.
People often mistake interest with fixation or obsession. I wonder why that is … especially since, as I’ve pointed out on other occasions, the people who offer that observation tend not to post about other matters discussed here. That raises the question of who’s fixated and about what. Look at what draws their interest.
Besides, Helga, if you want to look at obsession/fixation, you might want to look at Occidental Dissent. I always find it amusing that people who want to call out other people about certain things tend to overlook what should be called out. Maybe they don’t want to call it out because they agree with the message of white supremacy. I strongly suspect that’s not the case with you, but why would you post about Ms. Chastain but remain silent when I’ve exhibited their points of view for all to see? As I’ve said, look at what draws people’s interest.