The pen is mightier than the sword !

[CMF]

It's understandable that everyone is pissed about the latest news, but please take a deep breath and realize that whatever negative/threatening comments you post here can and will be used against us.

Some of the comments posted today are a bit over the top and will actually hurt us in our fight.

[chasinternet]

I'm posting to speak out about the issue of fear of strong emotions in a general way - I don't disgaree we CMF - take a deep breath. Try to pop a rubber stress ball before posting.

I agree only reasoned discourse has a chance of bringing change when dealing with these difficult situations, however, people do have emotions. Human beings are not "Mr. Spock" nor should be.

I'm not advocating raw emotions should be written here or that "over the top" comments shouldn't get people banned - I am just pointing out it is a difficult balance. Someone that expresses emotion probably has a heart for the issues - even if the expression is a bit off.

If a few posts from the Internet is going to make or break a decision/deal - then I submit the deal was never real in the first place. People/officials/judges always easily find support/justification for whatever decision they make. I have often seen in court papers (federal but not land use) both sides playing the "he said, she said" game involving even the attorneys - while it may amuze and annoy a federal judge - I really don't believe it changes the outcome at all.

Sometimes I use hyperbole when I post, for example my posts mentioning the California Hydra (water board) probably had the other section cringing a little - if it causes an issue then I'll address it.

I think the last Tellico court related press release said: "The dismissal is without prejudice, meaning that these same organizations or other interested parties could file administrative appeals or lawsuits challenging the ultimate outcome of the new planning process."

So... you tried to be reasonable and got the shaft. That's life. If I did what is right because it is right then I would do it again regardless. Looks like back to court time to me and it is a real shame that Forest Service is forcing it there.

Our organization officials should be the voices of reason - I'm not an organization official so I can tell anyone

I also can shut up and put up (a little $ that is) - even though I can't see Tellico from California I contributed to the cause. We all should.