"." files in the Open File, Files list?

[THO <tolden javanet com>]

I am sure I am missing something simple...

How can I make hidden files and directories visible in the "Open
File..." dialog box?  For example if I want to edit the .xinitrc file in
gedit I have to manually type the file name into the "Selection" field
but I'd rather select it from the "Files" list instead.  I have looked
around and can't find a switch an option a cc setting or a configuration
file to edit to make "." files appear in the "File" list.  For that
matter "." directories don't appear either... which I got around by
creating non "." links to the hidden directory.  Must I do a similar
thing with each hidden file I want access to from the "Open File..."
dialog?

Thanks
Tim