I have been mulling this over for the past 24 or so hours. No FML from cunyvm.edu. Funny, even with the bickering and such it always something to look to when I get a moment to sit and sip coffee. My version of the morning paper. Then I started thinking, Bill says it is only temporary, and it will continue, so that is a new beginning. New beginnings, an idea started to form. Why not make this a new beginning for all? Not just our beloved FML? Over the years, I have read and seen friendships come to an end over opinions, disagreements, something misread (we are all human and I admit there are times the first time I read something it hits one way, then I read it a second or third time trying to make sure I wasn't over reacting). Or things that are repeated, and repeated, and repeated. Again, we as humans, we are apt to make mistakes, not totally remembering the exact phrase or words said. You hear or read one word and use another word which to you is a synonym, but someone else doesn't see it that way. Ferret people are amongst the most passionate pet people I have ever met. Fierce in their loyalty to their beloved pet, and beliefs. I have seen the people of the ferret community move mountains, for example the legalization of ferrets in Michigan. Dreams have been realized. Randy's firs Ferret Aid Symposium, gave birth to the Ferret Congress who's VOLUNTEER members work endlessly to plan and execute educational symposiums that help ferret owners and vets alike, the endless work of the SOS VOLUNTEERS that work to help shelters struggling to make ends meet. So here is where this is all going, with the new beginning of the FML, I am openly apologizing to everyone I have ever hurt by opening my mouth and speaking what is on my mind without thinking of how it sounds, Even when stating the truth, there is no need to be cold, cruel, and mean. I am deeply sorry for hurt done. I also apologize to those who I have repeated gossip about, humans being humans repeat things, I am no better than any other human. Even when repeating something that was told to you as gospel truth, you have to think and research, just remember, sometimes people repeat the truth and unintentionally leave out one minute piece, or have fixated on one part and not heard the whole story. I am guilty of that, as many are. So here is my open apology to all who I have caused pain. If you would like a personal public apology, please email me off list tell me what I have done, So here is to new beginnings not only for the FML, but for all of its members. Hug those fur angels folks. jean Jean Caputo-Lee Director Ferrets Unlimited Ferret Shelter 4116 Bucyrus Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44109 215/749-3885 www.ferretsunlimited.org [Posted in FML issue 5353]