We had a new archery shop open down the road last August. I stopped in a couple times, but it was hunting season. Nothing gets in the way of hunting season.
We shot last Wednesday night with all the modern archers. The boys and I had a ball, and it was contagious.
So out of shooting one night.
-I helped a young shooter that is trying to switch over to traditional for the 4H shooting sports program.
-The shop owner asked me to return Friday before they open to teach him about tuning traditional bows. I demonstrated the bare shaft shooting method at 20 yards and was simply amazed.
-He asked me to make a couple Flemish strings for two of his customers.
-He asked me to give a traditional archery seminar. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to spread the passion and share my experience.
-I bought a family membership for the range.
I figure it is easier to catch them with honey, rather than vinegar. I am excited to help him out. He is truly trying to create a gathering/campfire feel to his shop.
As far as naysayers, life is too short to waste energy on them.
I am a self described horrible shot, when a negative comment comes up. I simply state that I have not lost animal in over 10 years, and my longest shot in that timeframe was an 18 yard shot on a moose (vitals the size of a kitchen sink).
I struggled mightily the first 10 years of this traditional journey. It simply took that long for my hunting skills to catch up with my shooting skill.
Another thing that has really helped me, is the simple fact that I can care less what other people think. This is my passion, my hobby, who I am. Not to be selfish, but I am doing this for me. If I am not enjoying it, why am I doing it?
Archery and bowhunting is rich in fellowship. But when it comes right down to it, an individual endeavor.
Sorry for the ramble.