I have been an member of the FML for quite some time now. Not as long
as some, but longer than most. The reason for the anonymity will become
clear.

I have learned a lot here, met some truly incredible people, cried with
some of you, screamed in frustration with some and laughed too.

It saddens me, it annoys me, when what could be, should be, civil adult
discussions and debates deteriorate into snide remarks, cheap shots,
name calling, finger pointing - well you get the gist.

We are a community. We are a family. Yes, we are gonna squabble from
time to time, but we are also suppose to be adults who care about each
other and if not exactly each other, then in the very least each
other's ferrets. It is Thanksgiving (here in the US) for heaven sake!
You want something to get pissy about? Let me tell you about my day.

Our local Animal Control Officer showed up here. Someone I know,
someone I have trusted, someone I have helped, someone I have given my
time, energy and support to, has filed a complaint with them alleging
I have "a house full of ferrets who are not being taken care of".

It's a baseless complaint meant to harass and hurt. The people in my
most intimate circle hit their collective roofs when I told them. They
know that I have gone without sleep, my own medications, groceries and
put my own health on the line for many more than one or two ferrets,
and not just mine. They know if you call me and you don't have food for
your ferret, I give you food. Can't afford a vet for your sick ferret?
I will pick you up in my car, drive you both to my vet, absorb the
costs and not charge you a thing. A not so funny joke around here is
the cat eats better than the dog, the ferrets eat better than the cat
and they all eat better than I do. Some times that means instead of me.

While some of you are busy picking at each other over what food is
best, an important issue no doubt but one we will all never agree on,
and belittling one another, you have lost sight that there are truly
bad things happening out in the world. Even betrayal by a trusted
friend intent on causing you pain pales beside some of them.

Please.............remember what we have in common, wanting the best
for each and every ferret, and we when disagree act like adults who
have a cause in common not misbehaving brats.

And above all - be Thankful we have each other. I am.

[RF]

[Posted in FML 6894]