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The remote scrolled through the TV channels looking for an alternative
to the war coverage. My brain was numbed with sensory overload.
'Way too many reporters and ex-reporters, generals and ex-generals,
pro and anti war citizens, armchair quarterbacks and second guessers
that had analyzed, dissected, examined, re-examined, and regurgitated
every single bit of information, filling the screen 24/7.
Medicine for the soul
I finally found National Geographic, and breathed an instinctive
sigh of relief. It has always been that way. Looking at nature,
and better yet being outside, is medicine for the soul. Nature is
our natural tranquilizer, our reality trip, our escape from the
pressure, and our sanctuary. Whether you are an occasional walker,
a weekend warrior or a hard core outdoors person, the outdoor passion
is an essential part of us. It's as necessary as the food and water
that keeps us alive.
This love of the outdoor experience has many mentors and teachers
along the way. Who was responsible for introducing you to the outdoors?
Who kindled your desire to participate in your chosen outdoor pursuits?
Our immediate family members led most of us into the outdoors. Mothers
and fathers who passed on their love of the field and stream to
the children. Grandparents, uncles and aunts often played pivotal
roles. Neighbors and close friends were also probably influential
in guiding you along.
Favorite sport
What outdoor sports you chose to make your favorite was probably
implanted in your brain at an early stage. Somebody made that experience
pleasurable enough to open your brain to learning more. Your mentor
/ teacher was patient, kept you from being bored, and made the learning
process a rewarding adventure. From that initial encounter you sought
more information and new teachers came along to pass on their knowledge.
Our intensity and success in our favorite hobbies depended on our
desire, and the quality and quantity of our mentors.
Fishing
Of all the sports, fishing has always been my thing. Childhood
memories contain no remembrances of football, baseball, hockey etc.
For some reason, fishing is what I recall. I was thinking about
how I got this way. Growing up in Southern Ontario until 7 years
old, I don't remember that many trips, but they must have made an
impression on my young brain. I listened in awe as my Dad told me
of trips for Muskellunge, huge Pike and Walleyes in the St. Lawrence
River and the Great Lakes.
(All previous issues are stored in the ARCHIVE
for your convenience)
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I vividly
remember a midnight bonfire on the shore of Lake Ontario with my
dad's friends as they netted smelt. A memorable first trip out with
the men.
Alberta
When Mom and Dad separated at my age 7, we moved to Southern Alberta.
There I was lucky enough to find a friend at church whose Dad fished
every weekend. Dave and his Dad Norm became surrogate weekend family
as we explored the waters of Southern Alberta. Any species was fair
game. If we couldn't fish trout, then perch and pike in the lake
in town were good enough. The Oldman River yielded whitefish, suckers,
goldeye, burbot and pike. If it had fins it was meant to be fished.
We weren't choosy.
Fly fishng
I was introduced to the fly rod, destined to become my weapon of
choice, by a true stroke of luck. When I was 12, an old fellow from
Oklahoma was visiting his daughter next door. He asked where the
best fishing was. I, of course, said the best fishing was at my
favorite stream in the mountains. "You should take me there."
"OK."
Early the next day found us in the clear waters of the stream. He
pulled out a fly rod and began to wave it around. He didn't catch
as many fish as I did but the sight of that fly rod mesmerized me.
I had to learn more. The next year when he came out to fish, he
presented me with a fly rod. I still have it.
Tackle shops
Hanging around tackle shops in the teen years and asking so many
questions got many invites to come along. I fear many invites came
about just to shut me up.
Through the years many people pass on their knowledge and passion
for the outdoors. All of them shape our conduct, ethics and our
ability and need to pass on our feelings to others. Unfortunately
hunting and fishing participation is dropping across Canada.
If we are to give this heritage to the future we must teach now.
Whatever the sport, we must encourage.
Start
Local rod and gun clubs, school groups are good places to start.
Many single parent families could use some help in getting kids
enjoying outdoor interests. Big Brothers and Sisters would love
to have some help to open the doors. Church groups, guides, scouts
all could use a hand or volunteers for field trips. Maybe organize
a walk, canoe or fishing trip.
Remember and give thanks to those who got you started in the outdoors.
Now recycle that experience.
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