Thursday, January 21, 2010

"It is natural, but you still need practice".

I  Try to take my son into the "real world" as much as possible. Mainly because while I think it is natural for us to be outdoors, if you stay inside long enough  you will lose some of your instincts and will never develop the skills that allow you to feel at home in the woods. Every minute spent outside teaches lessons that could never be taught around a dinner table. Following a deer trail from bedding area to rub line tells my son more about wildlife than I could tell him in a month.


Putting youngsters with people who have spent decades hunting every edible animal in your area is a great way to make sure a life time of knowledge is not lost with the passing of a generation that was more connected to the environment. It is not only enjoyable for all parties involved but I believe a historical rite of passage that we have gotten away from.



I know my son will want a fancy cell phone and will be interested in things that aren't outdoor related at times in his life, I just hope he appreciates the foundation I plan to give him. I think it will set him apart from his peers who may have never spent a night under the stars with out central heat and air. To all those who still believe knowing how to skin a deer is a worthwhile skill I say cheers. While some kids hunch over game-boys this summer me and the boy will be frog gigging, Your pal the Envirocapitalist.

4 comments:

  1. A very good post, nice job. I could not agree more and I as well will be taking along my son with me when I am out scouting or whatever I'm doing.

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  2. All we can do is plant the seed. Fortunately in most cases that's all we need to do.
    SBW

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  3. Hi Gabe,
    Whole heartily agree with your approach here, at least (unlike a myriad of others) you are pointing yours in the right direction and giving him the tools to continue if he so desires. I wish that there were more parents with your attitude.
    Regards,
    John

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  4. What a great post. And it's awesome that you're getting your son involved in the "real" world early.

    I have a 16 month old daughter, and I already make it a point to get her outside; and she will never own hand-held gaming system until later in her life.

    All kids these days would be much better if they only spent an hour a day in nature.

    It does them a ton of good in the long run.

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