I went by a circus today, didn't go in just by, and could tell from a distance that something was not right. My senses were correct when I found several protesters hanging out by the entrance to the circus itself. Of course, this was a family affair consisting mostly of small children and their parents. The protesters carried on unabashed.

One had a bull horn and shouted "animal abuse is not family fun", "Animal abuse is torture". Another held a sign reading "Ringling Profits, Animals Pray"; as she silently looked on. Interestingly, I saw a confused little boy approach a protester, clearly mistaking him for a organizational employee, and ask the protester a question about the even. I was slightly amused by this, but watched as the boy was handed pamphlets which presumably underscored their message.

I am all for protesting as a right. The bullhorns, I think, may have been a little much. I understand their disagreement with the function at hand, but it is mostly a family event. And, curiously, I don't see these protesters in front of the city zoo ever.

The Circus, I think, is a tradition. One enjoyed throughout history and the world over. While it is certainly possible to be cruel to an animal, sometimes the animal cruelty position goes a little far. And believe me I am well aware that any true PETA folk would argue their hearts out that the circus and zoo are an injustice. That is fine, but what they must realize is that while not only I am apathetic to that argument, so is a good portion of the rest of the world.