Building Character

[Longbowman55]

Just a few hours ago I was setting in my stand and watching the biggest buck of my hunting career walking right to me.  He was following the exact path a doe had taken a half hour earlier.  As he passed by a tree at 6 yds. I drew back held for a high lung shot due to the angle and missed!  After 5 1/2 weeks of hunting I finally had my golden opportunity and I blew it.

As I analyzed the evening it occurred to me just how lucky we are, as hunters, to be able to be so close to such wonderful creatures and have just the chance to take one with a simple stick and string.  God blessed me with this perfect opportunity and I didn't perform.  The buck is still out there and I still get to hunt.

After over 40 yrs. of doing this rather successfully I guess this is my time to build some character and realize I didn't prepare enough with my shooting.  Try as I might I just can't make myself feel bad over something that the average person will never even get to experience.

[SEMO_HUNTER]

I know exactly how you feel, I had a blunder myself this past weekend and I don't really care to elaborate on it, but I was humbled.
I honestly think it's God's way of teaching us humility, and letting us know that he's still calling the shots around here.
Just about the time I start thinking I'm too big for my britches and feeling kinda full of myself, my Creator reminds me just how small and flawed I am.....Lessons learned and I always give thanks to Him when he rewards me with a blessing for my hard work. I also take my lumps when He hands them out.....I'm a better man because of it.

Hope that helps ease your pain a little?

[Steve Clandinin]

I think back of all the blunders I've had over the years of Spot and stalking Monster Mulies and Whitetails ,it brings tears to my eyes.Yes I've shot some dandies,but the ones I've blundered will always be remembered.One in particular,seven big bucks in one coulee and the largest WOULD have been the new World record,in all honesty I could not put him under 225 Typical.I had some bad dreams about him.
Like you said just seeing and being in the same proximity as these animals keeps our lifeblood flowing for the love of our great sport.
I haven't shot an animal now in close to 5 years ,but that doesn't matter.It all means so much more to me than that.
Every season seams better than the past one and just being out ther with my bow does it all for me now.
Our character seams to build from our experiences and our age and our prioritys towards a kill seam to mellow and our love for the animals we hunt and all wildlife become very precious.Best of luck my friend and keep enjoying the ride.