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Feb 27, 2003 Call me crazy but I do not see the entertainment, fun, and allure of a circus. Aside from getting some wacky huge balloons I have somehow missed the attraction. What I see are sights that scare me and usually disturb me. Clowns, they just seem out there and I have yet to watch one that makes me laugh. I would think they have a very tough job, trying to go out and amuse people day in and day out, night after night. There is only so much physical comedy one can do that is new and refreshing, so they dont have a lot to work with. Frankly the horns are annoying and the costumes and makeup tend to give me nightmares. I do have respect for the people that make this their living, but I confess they just dont work for me. What is also scary is the amount of money one spends at a circus. The fresh popped popcorn and roasted peanuts alone are half a salary. One measly souvenir costs an arm and a leg! I would rather rent movies or go bowling for my reduction in money. What do they use that money for I want to know! What upsets me the most is the treatment of the poor animals. I see them tucked inside cages that are almost too small to house them. They are usually forced to be angry or perform some activity, prompted by whips or sticks of some sort. I dont really know how well they are being cared for, but they never seem to look healthy and I cant believe they are very happy. Maybe they are, but it just doesnt look that way to me. I have only attended a circus once and I cried almost the whole time. While I was entranced with the flying trapeze artists for a few suspenseful moments, the other three hours made me sick and disturbed me for months. My parents thought it would be a treat and I know they were sorry afterwards for they didnt realize how I would be affected. Since then I have watched a few on television and my feelings have remained unchanged. Certainly there are many talented people displaying skill and strength but I see a need for change here. Being an animal lover, I tend to get emotional when I feel animals are being mistreated or used unfairly. I am not an advocate for marine places that have you pay tons of money to watch them perform tricks or let you ride on one. If the facility is housing or rehabilitating an animal, I think that is wonderful and shouldnt be opened to the public. I used to be leery of zoos but I see now there are many that offer a wonderfully realistic way of life for the animal who may have otherwise been killed as a baby and is now given a second chance. When an animal is brought or taken out of its natural habitat I hope that people will do whatever is necessary to ensure that animal is cared for and cared for right. I spent a few years living in Oregon where Keiko was rehabilitated only forty minutes away. I went to see him a few times, knowing the aquarium was noted for its brilliant care and proper housing for its animal friends. I appreciated that Keiko wasnt made to learn silly tricks or perform, but to heal and adapt. More importantly, he was treated right and looked after by professionals who cared. While I was sad to see the whale go elsewhere, I knew it was the right thing to do. I guess what set me off on this topic was with spring vacation around the corner, there are tons of advertisements about marine parks, safaris, and zoos. Locally a circus is coming to town and posters are strewn everywhere. My heart goes out to the animal that is only appreciated for what it can do and how much money it brings the facility. I can no longer in good faith support the places that use animals for profit. I gladly give my money to charities that fund for the saving of an endangered species and I applaud the zoos and other venues where the animal is receiving the best care possible. If I had the money I would try to do so much more because I find animals to be truly fascinating creatures. While I do appreciate what the talented performers do at the circus with their hard work and sheer determination, I will not be taking my son to one anytime soon. I figure he has his whole life and as an adult he is welcome to make the decision to see one. My only hope is that the animals are well cared for and fed and not abused. For this lady, her seat has been gathering dust under the big top for years and will remain as so. About the author: Nancy Jackson is a full time author and poet with works in Literati, Twilight Times, Anotherealm, Sonny World, and various anthologies. Her pasttimes include spending time with her loved ones, drinking wine, and lots of writing! Email Nancy Jackson: coryann93@yahoo.com ------------ Comment on this column in the forum. ------------ |
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