One of the good things about ferret people, ferret groups and the FML is that we are all very different individuals with varied backgrounds and situations and interests who all have a single, special interest in common - we care deeply about ferrets and their well-being. Due to those differences, there will be things posted on the FML and/or in other groups to which we belong that don't particularly interest us or that aren't fully in agreement with our feelings, thoughts and/or methods. I agree with the comments previously made that when we don't agree with something or when something doesn't interest us, we should just skip over it and move along to the next post. Many have been able to put themselves in Nell's shoes and understand the needs she has and the decisions she has made. I can personally sympathize with Nell in a way that most people can't.. I have lived in the third world. My husband and I lived in a poor South American country for just under 11 years. Unless and until you have experienced the joys, the challenges and the frustrations of the workings of a third world country, you will not be able to completely understand the complexities of Nell's situation. She intended to do something fulfilling that would not only benefit her but would also benefit the loving, trusting people in Ethiopia who were in need of assistance and would further allow her to enjoy her own animals and help other animals. Unfortunately, for every person in a third world country who appreciates the efforts of a foreigner, there are many more who view the foreigner as a rich "cash cow" who isn't one of them or who can be taken advantage of easily. And in the third world, animals are often not viewed or cared for in the same way that they are in other areas. I just feel that we should all continue to support and help one another where possible and pass over the differences with sympathy and understanding. That's just my two cents' worth. I hope I didn't hurt anyone's feelings or step on anyone's toes. Vikki Lager [Posted in FML 7754]