AR folks and their way of conducting themselves are reminiscent of current world events. The AR whackos are extremists and radicalists just like the Islamic fundamentalists, demonstrating, gesticulating, creating all sorts of furvor and rhetoric to get attention and generate emotions beyond that which allow decent, objective people to formulate decent, objective opinions.
We, in comparison, are the objective, tolerant folks that understand the subtle nuances of population dynamics and wildlife management. We also demonstrate a respectful and abiding sense of tolerance for the opinons of others and are fine with them holding those opinions as long as they do not encroach upon our rights. I do not think it's too much of a stretch to say that the many and varied radical special interest groups in this country tody are in the same vein as the religious zealots around the world who can't make their point with factual objectivity, so they resort to harassment, threats, and coercion in hopes that you'll fall in line out of fear of reprisal, rather than philosophical common ground. Having said that, one must ask: Has it done us any good to try and reason with religious fundamentalists? Your answer will be indicative of where debate will take you with the AR whackos.
What we have here is an e-mail that could be described as an article of passive eco-terrorism. The intent is to generate self shame and anger - both emotions just like fear. You can post it if you want. It's your's now. It isn't anything many of us haven't seen before. But, it might be an eye opener for a few guys that are new to hunting or the AR extremist viewpoint. If you, as a reader, fall into that latter category, be certain to keep your eye on right versus wrong and know that, as a hunter, you choose to actively participate in the system, rather than stand on the outside looking in, hobbled by your own ignorance and hypocrisy. The only valid response to their argument, if there is such a thing, is a simple, "Thank you for sharing your feelings and opinons.", and leave it at that. In the end, we'll command the high ground.
