Editorial: August 9, 2024

The recent turn in the country’s political events has resulted in many in our sport of purebred dogs taking to Facebook with an explosion of opinions from both ends of the political spectrum. What a great and unique country we all live in that we have the political freedom to express ourselves without fear or prejudice. However, that being said, it’s time to address the issue. We don't want to act like some censor; we are merely pointing out the obvious. We are dismayed at the language, illustrations and tone of these posts. It is the difference of opinions and the diversity of our country that help to make it great and the beacon of freedom to the world. After all, the roots of our country’s founding are religious and political freedom. We encourage all opinions to be expressed, but there is a civil and polite way to express oneself. You know the adage: You catch more flies with honey. The vitriol that is expressed is so demeaning to the those it is intended to address, as it is to all who read it. Our country is based on these freedoms, but nowhere does it say rudeness. You can express your opinions in a positive way; if your opinions differ, they can be expressed in a polite manner. The disagreements are not in question; it’s the delivery. It’s very easy to write and express yourself in the privacy of your home. In that cocoon, there is a freedom that you can enjoy. But when you send it out into the universe, it becomes public. As we watch with great interest the current Olympics being held in Paris, we see sportsmanship among athletes from different countries that are not friendly to one another, but the athletes rise above that and comingle and congratulate one another, regardless of their political positions. We do the same in our sport: With the exception of some bad losers, we are civil and caring and polite to one another, win or lose. We should apply those principles when writing posts on Facebook. Think how you would feel if that negativity and vitriol were directed at you. There is enough negatively and hatred in the world; we don't need to contribute to it. We are not here to lecture or condone, just addressing and acknowledging the tone of these posts and how they are received. So, please, when you write a post, read it twice and then hit send.