First things first... I think the parasite idea is a GREAT idea! I
think it would be fun to see all the "infected" stamps. Go for it
Leaping Lizards! I'm relatively new to this this hobby, sport, game,
what ever title we wish to give it, and as I've come to understand
there "are no rules." So why not let this idea have a shot? If you
don't want to participate and should stumble upon a parasite, just
leave it in the box.

And the issue about the name, well 1) from what I've learned parasite
is not the common term in the US for finding additional stamps. Okay,
so they've been referred to as parasites at times, but they seem to
be
more commonly known as hitch hikers. 2) I don't see what the big deal
is about using the term parasite. I don't see how it would initiate
fear or confusion. If that's the case, I suppose we best change the
term "hitchkiker" to something more pc, and so that any letterboxers--

adults or children-- don't think we are actually picking up a
hitchhiker. I have a suggestion-- how about homeless stamps-- wait,
that wouldn't be pc either . . . minimally sheltered stamp???
Freeloader? Isn't there a list for hitchhikers? Maybe it should be
changed to the traveling companion list? Sound ridiculous? So does
the nit-picking over this idea (no pun intended). It's a game.
There
are no rules. Cuckoo clues and Hitchhikers were once ideas, too, and
probably not popular with everyone at the beginning, either. But
hey,
you've got to try new things.

I say, give it a try. I can't wait to be infected

Emmi