Joe, That makes sense. Electricity just flows in a circle. The red is hot (elec flowing in) and the white is neutral (elec flows back out). Trust me. I'm scared of electricity! It can do some horrible stuff. I have a respect for it and am very careful.... haven't had to rewire a sewing machine motor yet but I'm sure I can do it if I have to. At least I can unplug things and work on it unlike rewiring our cabin. I was really careful when I did that. The DH stood back and watched me..... like he wanted to be there if I caught on fire or something..... ha ha. Everything works just fine.