I realize that hunting is not for everyone. Just like a myriad of
other activities that are not universally enjoyed by each person in the
population, hunting has a unique set of participants. You either have the
instincts, skills and inclination for it...or you don't. I have come to the
realization that I will probably never convince a true anti-hunting person that
it is an honorable tradition even though that same person openly supports the
killing of animals for food. Anti-hunters commonly frequent meat markets,
supermarket meat counters and restaurants looking for a nice pot
roast, or a leg of lamb, or a rotisserie chicken. It is also a given
that an experienced hunter will never be swayed away from the principals and
values of true fair chase hunting. I personally believe that it is
more honorable to eat animals that have a fair chance rather than those that
are forced to endure the slow walk, down a fenced path, to the waiting butcher.
Hunting is most assuredly an integral part of the subsistence life style,
and it provides me with a great sense of satisfaction knowing that I can and do
provide for my family in a very traditional way. Hunting is also a very
challenging endeavor. To venture to the wild remote country and seek an
animal in his domain, facing his advanced senses and superior physical
abilities is very humbling and at times frightening. Anyone who says
differently has simply never really experienced actual fair chase hunting.
There will always be opinions on both sides of this issue and we may never
reach a meaningful treaty; but I have a feeling that if the apocalyptic Mayan
predictions come to pass there may be a few suddenly converted anti-hunters
knocking on my door asking me if I could help feed their children.
