While recently attending the funeral of Gerald Bardwell, I couldn't have agreed more when the minister suggested that my friend had affected the lives of many young men as a retired high school coach and athletic director.
But during my drive home, I began to ponder how Gerald had also affected the lives of many as an avid outdoorsman, as well. He had certainly proven a mentor to me. In fact, he was more than willing to share his passion for bird hunting and fishing.
I then began reminiscing about others who had proven mentors and taught me the value of pursuing my passion for the outdoors. Of course, my dad was the first person that came to mind.
A Baptist minister, his greatest priority was sharing the gospel. But he also spent countless hours fishing with his son. But little did I know, at the time, that the lessons I was learning went far deeper than lure choice, technique and all of the other little tricks that make one a better angler. He taught me the value of patience and persistence. And it was essential to be aware of one's surroundings.
I was also to learn of a responsibility to be a good steward of the outdoors. But I venture to say that the greatest benefit was the bond built between a father and son.
Then there was Bill Sargo. He had taught me, my mother and my sister during his long tenure as a high school teacher. But he also played a huge role in teaching good work ethics outside of the classroom, as I worked for him for a number of years after his retirement.
Many hours were spent stretching fence, building dog pens and a plethora of other projects. But it wasn't all work. In fact, I have fond memories of sitting on his tail gate and listening to his pack of hounds run. Of course, much of our conversation pertained to who was leading the pack. But he also took advantage of the opportunity to share thoughts, concerns and wise advice pertaining to my future.
And then there was Hugh Demby. Hugh was a fighter pilot in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. Hugh and I spent countless hours fishing together, and we grew to anticipate the annual blackberry season.
We embarked upon a few deer hunts together, and I will always cherish the memories of sowing seeds and watching plants emerge from the freshly tilled soil. And with plenty of hard work and perseverance, we would eventually recognize the fruits of our labors.
I then began to ponder how each and every one of these guys had chosen to be servants of their fellow man. And I was certain that many hearts were left heavy when we were forced to tell them each goodbye.
I was certainly privileged and blessed to call these men mentors. But with this privilege came a responsibility. The way I see it, those who freely shared knowledge and support, invested their time with hopes that I would continue their legacies. And to do so, I must be willing to share my passion for the wonderful outdoors with the younger generations as well.
Don't get me wrong, In no form or fashion do I even fathom that I could fill the shoes of the aforementioned men who took me under their wings and so freely shared what they had learned and been taught by those before them.
But if I fail to try, their efforts will have certainly gone in vain. That in mind, I find it more important than ever to share my passion with the younger generations.
And with a little luck, I, too, will touch someone's life before my earthly race is over. And my efforts will all be worthwhile if they feel compelled to carry the torch, and share with others the value of spending time in the midst of the wonderful outdoors.