Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Shafts, Spine, Nocks, Fletching, etc.

 Chose to do something new-for-me yesterday:  Archery.

Other than maybe a try at it at Patrol Boy Camp (yes, that's a real thing) one summer, I don't remember ever shooting a bow and arrow.  Yesterday, a friend from my muzzleloading club took me out to a range to introduce me to the sport.  How hard can it be, right?  Just load the sucker up, pull back, let her fly . . . and astonish everyone as the arrow pierces the center of the bulls-eye. 

Wrong!

Turns out that, like life, there is a long list of things you have to learn.  And, like everything in life, it will take knowledge, practice, learning from failures, more practice, more knowledge, more learning from failure and other's successes (an endless cycle). 

I've now invested in at least the basic equipment (resources) to get started.  Now, it's just a matter of persistent action, evaluation, adjust direction if needed, continue to make improvements, and ENJOY the process.

Here are a few valuable benefits of archery:

Archery is for everyone -- even people with the most severe disabilities can enjoy the sport.  Individuals from all different walks of life can enjoy archery. Every age group is able to practice the sport. It is not uncommon to see 50-year-olds alongside 14-year-olds giving tips and advice on the range.
Archery helps physical development.
Archery teaches growth mindset.
Archery improves mental toughness.
Archery boosts self-confidence.
Archery gives a sense of accomplishment.
Archery teaches goal setting.
Archery teaches teamwork and sportsmanship.
Archery is not only an individual discipline but can be enjoyed as a team event. Being on a team teaches kids to lead others, support them and rely on them.
Archery is relatively inexpensive.
Archery can be practiced year-round.
Archery can be practiced both indoors and outdoors.
Archery teaches the importance of safety.
Archery is fun.
Archery is cool.
Every child (and adult) wants to be a hero. Being able to shoot arrows will let kids (and the kid in me) feel like the famous heroes– Green Arrow, Hawkeye, Katniss Everdeen, Robin Hood, Rambo, and others!

See you at the range!

Carpe diem Life,
David Kuhn

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