This cowboy quote was about a rough day on the ranch. Everything must have gone wrong, the weather turned bad, critters broke down, and it was time for a change. That is how many of us feel about the future of our country.
Elections are a time for change. They can bring out the best and the worst in people. It is hard to know who is truthful or just looking out for themselves. We elect people to stand for the public that votes for them. Voting for friendly outdoor environmental candidates is a good idea. Sadly, that’s not how it works out.
We are so burned out over the commercials, negative news, political mail, polls, and negative news. What will be will be. It amazes me how much money is wasted on these commercials and election races. We were raised to reward those that are honest and can be trusted. That shouldn’t require millions of dollars. A clear look in the eye, an unrehearsed voice of reason, a record of success and someone that is a great listener and asks good questions of their constituents.
Political ideas vary by political party, gender, state, and just by opinions. Friends and family can vary in opinions, and this often stimulates controversy and arguments. If we are honest about what we believe, there could be repercussions from our opinions. Most of us made our choices millions of dollars ago. When we are tired of these political games and wasted money, it’s time for change.
That’s when I go hunting, fishing, or just adventure outdoors. Turn off the boob tube, silence the cell phones, avoid the rhetoric and instead choose where you plan to hunt and fish.
The rivers, forests, mountains, and critters don’t lie. They are just what they are. When we hunt or fish, we focus on hunting and fishing. Enjoy the shade from a forest, the flow of water, the screaming from bugling elk, the excitement of a flushing upland bird, or the companionship of friends, dogs, or a good horse.
The outdoors is our Church, sanctuary, and therapy. Without these special connections, we would be miserable in a world where hate, violence, dishonesty, and terror are becoming the norm.
There may be days when we don’t catch fish, tag an elk, or get caught in some bad weather but it does not keep us from trying again. We learn from mistakes, overcome challenges, and stay on track.
Happiness is easier than we think. Nothing makes us happier than getting a bite, packing out an elk, making a wing shot on a Rooster pheasant, or riding a horse across a ridgeline. The outdoor things we do, see, and accomplish outweigh the other stresses in life.
Back in the day, I was a Teacher in Public Schools. Not every day went as planned. When things went crazy in the classroom, I would escape in my mind and visit those outdoor places and memories that recharge my spirit and gave me strength. Suddenly, things were not as bad as I thought.
What good could be done from the billions of wasted political dollars? Elections have become big business. What if our elections became limited to just a few months and way fewer dollars. We do not need to be brainwashed from watching the same commercials repeatedly.
This outdoor therapy is not expensive, it just requires time and patience and maybe some family and friends.
“WE The People” Just want to be happy, healthy, and go fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and enjoy a few more sunrises.
Montana Grant
