As human beings, we are destined to evolve, hopefully steering ourselves towards improvement. Our lives present opportunities to test our adaptability and openness to new experiences. Yes, even an old dog can learn new tricks.
Only a few months ago I found myself bewildered by the notion of participating in field target hunter class. As very few people in my region actively engaged in air gunnery, I was unaware of a different world that awaited me. A friend encouraged me to attend a field target hunter match at a club in Ohio, where I decided to take a leap of faith and give it a try, just for fun, doubting that I would find it all that enjoyable.
I found myself handling a gun with specific requirements that were different from what I had encountered before: a sub 20 ft lb. gun, 177 cal., loading one pellet at a time., limited to 16 X scope, etc. Despite my reservations, I borrowed a gun from the club and gave it a try.
Hey, I have to tell you, it was hot that day, I mean really hot, shooing in a heavily wooded area the lighting was horrible, the humidity was over the top – the last time I was that miserable was Vietnam. A challenge to say the least….
To my surprise, my initial skepticism transformed into an unexpected appreciation for the discipline, precision, and focus that this style of shooting, demanding something that was definitely outside my comfort zone.
Within a month I acquired my very own equipment, and looked forward to my second match. I did okay, truthfully, I did horrible, but I had already been bitten by the bug. Each time I’ll do better.
It serves as a gentle reminder that we, as human beings, can surprise ourselves by discovering new passions and sources of joy if only we remain open-minded and curious about the world around us.
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the great people I’ve met, and I thank every one of them for their help and advice.
Only a few months ago I found myself bewildered by the notion of participating in field target hunter class. As very few people in my region actively engaged in air gunnery, I was unaware of a different world that awaited me. A friend encouraged me to attend a field target hunter match at a club in Ohio, where I decided to take a leap of faith and give it a try, just for fun, doubting that I would find it all that enjoyable.
I found myself handling a gun with specific requirements that were different from what I had encountered before: a sub 20 ft lb. gun, 177 cal., loading one pellet at a time., limited to 16 X scope, etc. Despite my reservations, I borrowed a gun from the club and gave it a try.
Hey, I have to tell you, it was hot that day, I mean really hot, shooing in a heavily wooded area the lighting was horrible, the humidity was over the top – the last time I was that miserable was Vietnam. A challenge to say the least….
To my surprise, my initial skepticism transformed into an unexpected appreciation for the discipline, precision, and focus that this style of shooting, demanding something that was definitely outside my comfort zone.
Within a month I acquired my very own equipment, and looked forward to my second match. I did okay, truthfully, I did horrible, but I had already been bitten by the bug. Each time I’ll do better.
It serves as a gentle reminder that we, as human beings, can surprise ourselves by discovering new passions and sources of joy if only we remain open-minded and curious about the world around us.
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the great people I’ve met, and I thank every one of them for their help and advice.
