Congratulations, You Killed a Shark.

Conundrum: What to do about Facebook 'friends' that kill sharks.

I realize that FB is supposed to be a happy cyber-space where we can all share and be jolly and sing kumbayah (sp?). But when one of your 'friends'' actions flies in the face of your convictions, what do you do? Do you hit the kill switch (de-friend), or turn a blind eye and keep the peace? Do you risk rocking the boat, or make nice?

It's no secret that I hold a special place in my heart and mind for sharks. That said, I also understand how hard it is to make a living as a fisherman - either commercial or recreational. In certain states, it is still legal to 'harvest' certain sharks. The law is the law. But, with every shark killed, the fishermen inch closer to killing their livelihood. No fish, no business. Furthermore, through my FB friends, I can stay informed - on the lines as it were - instead of being fed a stream of filtered information. It's a fine line.

I got into a tussle with one of my FB 'friends' over this about 6-7 months ago. He takes sharks legally, I oppose taking any sharks for any reason. We came to a mutual understanding. I'd hoped over time, he'd find a way to satisfy his clients and stay in business WITHOUT taking sharks. Not. Today he posted a picture of a client with a Blacktip Shark with the caption: "blacktip - that's what's for dinner." (See above. Interestingly, out of his over 500 'friends' only four 'liked' it, and only two commented. What's that say?)

I was completely grossed out and my visceral reaction was to say so. But, I didn't. Then, I felt like a total coward. Wimp! Wishy-washy! That's not usually how I operate.

So, when I can't smack myself out of myself, I go to my roots. What would Mom say? That's easy enough: "Follow your heart."

In conclusion: Bye bye FB 'friend'. The only good shark is a live shark.