Where do I get it?

Nothing turns my crank like hunting big game.  I have a hunting heritage that runs deep in my bloodline.  Both sides were hunters.  I haven't made a thorough study of my progenitors to discover exactly why hunting is so ingrained in my DNA.  If I did, I suspect to find a coat of arms with a spear, or archery tackle adorning it.  In my fantasy, I hope to find graven antlers on it. 

My patriarchal ancestors must have taken some fine chamois high above their chalets in the Swiss Alps.  It makes sense that's where I get my predisposition for mountain hunting.  Though I share their love of the mountains, I'm fairly certain I'll never be able to yodel like my grandpa Ted.  Those high notes aren't in my DNA.  But I am thankful every day that hunting is.    It's only a hunch, but I believe my matriarchal line of forefathers hunted the Sherwood Forest. They were the "Merry Men."  I would love to join their campfire to hear of their hunting tales. I bet they could really spin some yarns. I think I could keep up with a few of my own. 

Whether my early ancestors hunted mastodon with a spear, (they did), or hunted the king's deer, doesn't matter.  One thing is certain.  It's in me!  And while I live a mostly civilized life, I am wild at heart.  The mountains have a very strong pull.  The "call of the wild", is real.   Even now, I long for my next opportunity to strap on a backpack of provisions to venture out.

The Pursuit. 

What is it about hunting that is so captivating?  For those who don't hunt, or understand the drive to do it, it might not make sense.  I would have you know It's less about the kill than some may think.  Don't get me wrong, killing an animal is an important part of the hunt.  It's always my goal.  But I've had some glorious pursuits that didn't end with a full freezer.  And that didn't tarnish the hunt one bit.  No,  It is much more about the pursuit.  One thing I know for certain, whether in the mountains, or everyday life, I am happiest when I have goals and dreams to pursue.  Hunting encapsulates the essence of pursuit in the purest, most natural way.  It's a struggle.   And when it's over, I can't get very far into resting up before I am thinking about the next struggle. 

I feel alive when I'm in pursuit.