It's been said that if you give a man a fish, you'll feed him for a day; if you teach a man to hunt, he'll be fed for a lifetime. But as a mere result of society seen through politics, social media and everything else in between, on top of the ever-so-sensitive subject of gun control, hunting is also emphasized as a hugely controversial topic.
The unworldly 12-year-old version of myself, whose wardrobe was probably limited to only that of camouflage, would never be able to grasp the animosity so easily thrown around today by those with opposing views—the ones who so effortlessly defend the impulsive reasoning of animal cruelty. From an analytical standpoint, it boggles me. Up until now, in an age when it seems you can't do or say anything without offending people, I was oblivious to the other side of the tracks.
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Hunting season: I've looked forward to it every single year for as long as I can remember. This is a passion to many, being ridiculed and shamed ordinarily by contradiction.
This serves as a single example amongst many in media, but it's undemanding to attack a notion which has no correlation to your own value system.
How naive of me to come so near to letting even an ounce of guilt consume me. The critical remarks must stem from that of a closed-mind because the problem is not the hunter nor the one who opposes it, but the lack of respect in between.
I firmly believe hunting is as much encoded in our genes as hair color is. It's a tradition passed down, and for a good majority, it's a wholesome livelihood. And most are ethical and well-rounded human beings who are one with nature, rather than against.
I am an example, and I can speak on behalf of those with a similar way of life. Some of my greatest lessons and lasting memories are encompassed through the time I've spent in the woods.
Hunting is an essential role in the real-world conservation that sustains the wildlife around us. There are no foul intentions. There are even numerous restrictions, guidelines and limits that are closely followed and monitored when the season comes around.
And aside from nature's sensibility, it similarly benefits an individual who embraces and handles the skillful sport in the proper manner. In a reality that stops for no one, moving faster by the minute, hunting and being outdoors, in general, creates a vast appreciation for simplicity. It allows for a slow down that arranges relaxation and reflection, not to mention a great harvest if you're lucky.
You endure discipline and quickly become accustomed to the importance of patience. And much like life in general, the journey is revolved around the little details. It's not always about the kill, but the hunt itself.
So, to the anti-hunters, it's perfectly reasonable that you do not support hunting. But that is no motive to jump to bashing. How boring would it be if everyone had the same interests?
But to those out there who spend time in a tree stand, anticipate the adrenaline rush, the preparation, the deer meat for dinner, be proud of your skill to provide. Protect your passion. Teach your sons and daughters to hunt, too. Indulge in your own means of survival and sportsmanship. And don't apologize for it.
