Experience the Thrill of Rabbit Hunting with the TWF

Discovering the Beauty of the Hunting Ground

The Sequatchie Valley offers a truly beautiful backdrop for this hunting adventure. As David Long, the East Tennessee Field Representative for TWF’s Hunting & Fishing Academy, mentioned, “It’s a very beautiful area that Mr. Roberson provides for us.” The natural scenery sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.

For many of the youngsters here, it was their first time on a rabbit hunt. The sight and sound of a pack of beagles hot on the trail of a rabbit were new and enlightening. Grey Blackburn, for instance, had never expected the beagles to be so loud. He said, “I didn’t know they were going to be this loud. I like it. I like that we’re in nature.”

The Challenges of Hunting Rabbits

Rabbits, with their DNA that has taught them to avoid foxes, coyotes, hawks, and other predators, are fast and elusive creatures. Researchers state that they have a top speed of 18 mph. Coupled with their erratic twists and turns, they can be a tough target, especially for beginners. As Marcus Dortch and his son Collin know, it takes time and practice to master the art of hunting rabbits.

Collin, a regular on TWF hunts, had not always gotten to pull the trigger. But today was different. It was a day of excitement and achievement as he was able to participate in the hunt and experience the thrill of the chase.

The Joy of Being in Nature

One of the greatest joys of this rabbit hunt is the opportunity to be in nature. As Grey mentioned, “I like that we’re in nature.” The fresh air, the sounds of the beagles, and the beauty of the surroundings make for an immersive experience that connects us with the natural world.

Even though not all the rabbits got away, the experience of being in nature and part of the hunt is what truly matters. It’s a chance for these young hunters to learn about wildlife and develop a respect for the natural environment.

Learn more about the TWF Hunting and Fishing Academy here and continue to explore the wonders of nature through hunting and fishing.

Uncovering the Hidden Struggles of a Former Religious Believer

Section 1: The Religious Upbringing

The author grew up in a very religious household where the church they attended, upon reflection, was revealed to be a Christian cult disguised as a non-denominational church. This upbringing instilled in them the idea that their highest purpose in life was to be a wife and mother. For years, they went through life in their 20s believing that having children was the only way forward, even though they never enjoyed playing with baby dolls and had no desire to be pregnant. The very thought of it was mortifying to them.

However, during college, they were exposed to the real world and began to question these ingrained beliefs. They realized that they did not have to have children and that it was okay not to want them. This realization was a turning point in their life.

Section 2: Family Reactions

When the author left the church and started expressing their lack of desire for children and indifference to marriage, they faced a lot of pushback from their family. Their dad's wife once said that when their friends had kids, they would lose them because they would see them as cold and heartless for not wanting children. This kind of reaction shows the difficulty of breaking away from traditional family values.

But fast-forward 15 years, and it became clear that the author's stance was not a phase. By their mid-30s, people realized that they were genuine in their decision. They met a wonderful partner who also did not want more children, and they have two older teenagers that they adore and get along with well. This shows that it is possible to find a fulfilling life without following the traditional path of having children.

Section 3: The Bisexual Aspect

It turns out that a large reason the author never wanted children is that they are bisexual and have a preference for women. This aspect of their identity was a significant factor in their decision not to have children. It emphasizes that everyone's reasons for not wanting children are unique and should be respected.

Whether it's due to personal preferences, religious upbringing, or other factors, each person's journey is valid. The author's story serves as a reminder that we should respect everyone's choices and not judge them based on our own beliefs.