The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus made the announcement this week that they will retire elephants from 'The Greatest Show on Earth' this May, a year-and-a-half sooner than they originally planned. The company confirmed that building the housing structures took less time than originally planned.

Now I've never been a huge fan of the circus for two reasons. First of all, I hate clowns! Secondly, I had the chance to see an elephant backstage at a circus where I made an appearance for a radio station I worked for at the time. The poor thing was chained up, and with a tear rolling down his face, he reached out his front leg and shook his head side to side.

I was horrified by what I saw, and I've never felt more helpless in my life. I will never forget those few short moments with that magnificent animal, and I'm sure he still remembers too. Elephants are known for their memory, so long after their last performance they will still remember everything.

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