[lolabella]

First, I want to congratulate James and Anna on the great job that they have done with the board. The board and posters have been a great source of information for me and my family and we truly enjoyed our experience in Playa. I enjoy coming back to the posts each day to share in our mutual love for all things Playa.

However, I never expected to encounter such hostility on this site regarding Dolphin Swims. I understand and respect the opinions of everyone on this site. However, my skin is not thick and I cannot tolerate someone suggesting that I treat dolphins ‘like circus show freaks’, because Xel-ha took our picture with them. I think is hypocritical for the poster to write the following

[i]So while you may disagree, people..don't scrutinize or barrage the person's beliefs. For things I don't agree with, I say,"Well, I disagree, but I value your ambition towards your cause."[/i]

and then berate me and my post in the same breath.. I was simply trying to answer the initial question and no where in my post did I get on my soap box and berate anybody for their beliefs. I also had pictures taken of me and the parrots on property…does this make me an exploiter of parrots now too?

James, I do believe that your site should have a place for this extremely emotional and controversial topic. We would then have the chance to make up our own minds up accordingly. I have to admit that I do not know enough about this topic and would appreciate being educated on the subject. I welcome the chance for anyone to change my mind on any controversial subject as long as I am treated respectfully and given concrete facts for or against the matter at hand.

Is it possible to open up a thread where posters can discuss the dolphin swims? That way, if posters which to stand clear of the controversy, they can choose not to read it, but still have a place to ask or answer the questions regarding participating in it.