This world can be a very punishing world if you are unprepared, even to the extent that it takes that which is most coveted-life. I watched a movie last night that bore this truth. It was based on the book Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer. This book, when I first read it a few years ago, really spoke to me because I identified with the main character and adventurer, Chris McCandless. I liked his purpose and drive, but felt bad for him in his credulity toward 'making it' in the wild. Many men have made a life for themselves, alone in the wilderness, but they were thoroughly prepared for what it takes to survive. Chris fell in love with the idea of the wild and being one with it, but he didn't take the time to truly understand the skill set and tools required for success. His purpose was clouded by romance, which unfortunately, led to his demise.
I've always loved being away from the city, crowds, and the daily grind. I've always relished my time in the woods by myself or with a good friend. If I happened to be alone, it was that much more real because I didn't have to answer for anything or to anyone. I could do what I wanted, when I wanted, be free to contemplate religion, life and my purpose in it, or anything I so chose, without any interruptions or hindrance. I used to take these trips a couple of times a year, usually during hunting season, for a few days at a time. I haven't done this in a while, and I think I need to get back to it.
Watching that movie last night made me remember my sometimes torrid affair with the outdoors. I'll have to make it a point to get away later this year. Maybe I'll take Pops with me. He likes the outdoors as much as I do, and last year we went on a brief trip in search of a bobcat that has eluded me for a couple of years now. There was another trip planned, but it was canceled, and the season was over that very weekend. I have come as close as having crosshairs on this cat's thick fur, but he slid into thick brush as fast as he had appeared, just as my finger kissed the trigger. I've seen him three times to date, and most hunters and experts say that for every time you see a bobcat, he or she has seen you eight or nine times. Some people go through life without ever seeing one in the wild. Nary a shot was fired at my ultimate prey, but I think this year is his year and mine. See you soon.
CZ
3 comments:
NOOOOOO!!! leave the kitty alone!!! :-(
One of the mill inspectors from Mississippi was out hunting with his son and they were calling (turkeys I think) and suddenly a bobcat came up from behind them, placed a paw on either side of the son's head and tried to take a bite. The bobcat then realized the son was not a turkey and ran off, leaving the son bloodied but OK. Another mill operator, while rehashing this story, said he sees three or four bobcats a year, but I don't think he's ever got one. A third mill operator has taken one down, with the stuff specimen in his office as proof. Don't know what all that's worth, but hey, they're out there and some people are able to get one in the crosshairs.
i agree with k..whats the point? he/she is trying to survive just as we are...pretty soon they will all be extinct.....u bad brother u!
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