>From:    "Stines, James" <[log in to unmask]>
>
>-snip- I don't know if I would call a lot of what goes on on the list
>as bickering.  How about "spirited discussion"?  If you go into a group
>expecting to all have the same ideas you'll be sorely disappointed.
>We're not Stepford clones.  People will have different opinions and
>views; that is what is so great about a list of this nature.  When it
>gets down to being personal and name-calling, THAT is when there is a
>problem, but BIG does a great job of heading most of that off.  As for
>people who leave the list.  If they leave over silly things like that
>(which I bet few really leave) then what is the loss?...
 
Well said, Mr. Stines!  As far as folks leaving the list though, I would
hope that would not happen here.  What is considered silly to some, may
be quite serious to others (i.e., perception = reality).  There is so
much valuable information and advice here, I would hope people see past
the occasional unpleasantness and focus on what's truly important.
 
There are so many other lists and boards out there such as TFS, ClubMed
Ferrets, a recently-established board at http://commando_fuzz.aimoo.com/
or My Norwegian Ferret Family (just to name a few) - that there is truly
something for everyone and for every personality... all with ferrets'
health and well-being as their primary focus.  There is room enough for
all - one must simply find the lists and boards that feel comfortable.
 
I'm here to stay... =)
 
*DookLover*
[Posted in FML issue 4553]