Life Lessons

I have spent most of my free time in the outdoors, usually hunting or scouting for that perfect hunting spot. You see, my dad is a game warden and my mom, who is a teacher, is also an outdoor and hunting enthusiast. They spend their time teaching me in the open air, with the outdoors as a big classroom. I have learned not only things like how to handle a firearm or how to field dress my harvest, but many other issues as well. While hunting, my parents often ask me, “What lesson can we learn from this situation, Justin?” Hunting has taught me life’s most valuable lessons.

I am learning patience. Ask my mom, I am not a patient person. Sitting completely still while turkey hunting, when the temperature is below freezing, is difficult. It pays off when a mature gobbler walks in front of you. At other times the game does not come in, and I must sit for hours or try again another day. The patience I have learned while hunting will help me as an adult to wait, persevere and see things through.

In addition to patience, hunting teaches me the responsibility to care for the land and our hunting heritage. Years ago, when my grandfather was a child, wildlife was not as abundant as it is today. The land was not cared for and wildlife habitat was destroyed through clear cutting, over-grazing and development. The use of pesticides adversely affected many animals. Much of the wildlife was over-hunted and almost wiped out. Now, through the efforts of many people and conservation organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation, Safari Club International and Ducks Unlimited, the balance of nature is returning and so is the wildlife I enjoy. While hunting, I observe the types of trees and shrubs wildlife in my area feed upon. With the help of my parents, I plant these trees and shrubs in nearby wood lots. Sometimes we invite the students of the Future Farmers of America to help us. In this way, I teach others to care for the land and the wildlife it supports. Although we can’t see the results of our efforts for a few years, we are working together to make a difference. Otherwise, the wildlife we cherish and hunt may go away.

The most important lesson I’ve learned from hunting is to pass this sport on. My grandfathers introduced my parents to hunting and when I was ready my parents introduced me to the sport. This past spring, during our state’s youth turkey hunt, I helped introduce a friend to turkey hunting. It was hard work. We practiced calling together. When he needed encouragement, I was there. His questions helped us both to think carefully. If there was frustration, I talked him through it. In the woods, we learned to hear, sense and see as never before. Each evening we sat around the campfire with family and friends to share stories and ideas, and give thanks for the opportunities of each day.

Through hunting I have learned the life lessons and values of patience, responsibility, respect, conservation, appreciation and family values. In other words, in learning to hunt I am also learning to live.