I can’t really describe the feeling behind a successful hunt. I could try, but I don’t think I would be able to do it justice. There are so many emotions wrapped in the adrenaline that consumes me in the woods after harvesting an animal. The first thing that I want to do is tell everyone. Anyone. I want to shout to the world that I am proud that my early mornings, hard work, time, and practice have all paid off.
Last week I wrote a post highlighting some questions that I’m frequently asked by people who just don’t “get it.” You know, why I spend so much of my time in the woods or on the water. Doing what I love.
There is another group of people that I feel need to be recognized. These are the people in my life who are proud of me, even though they might not get why I do what I do. They also probably would never want to do it themselves. The people that I spend so much time with, and talk about hunting and fishing so much they see my passion.
To my friends and family who don’t hunt or fish, but are just flat out supportive:
Thank you for allowing me to share my enthusiasm, joy, and passion with you. Even if you don’t understand the why behind it, you see that these things bring me happiness. To you, that’s all that matters. This means more to me than you know.
For responding with just as much excitement as I have, even if you don’t really want to see the picture of the lifeless animal that I texted you. For returning nothing to me but words of endearment.
Thank you for listening to my excessive hunting and fishing stories at picnics, parties, and gatherings even if you’ve heard them before, and of course for waiting for what might seem like forever as I pull up the old pictures on my phone to go with them.
Thank you for being understanding when I can’t come to an event or a party, because it’s hunting season. It’s never questioned, only accepted.
Most of all, thank you for never being judgemental. Not once have any of these people in my life made me feel bad or guilty for doing what I love. That takes a special kind of person, and you all know exactly who you are.
Fellow hunters and anglers it’s no secret that we are a widely misunderstood community, but odds are, you have these people in your circle. The people who love you dearly, and will support you in any endeavor that you embark on in life. The ones who are always rooting for you. Your tribe. Your cheerleaders.
Tell them. Thank them. Let it be known how much their unwavering support and love means to you. They deserve to know.
Wild Woman 