So, Gary Mathis of our associational staff asked me to be the guest speak for the annual Men and Boys Outdoorsman Retreat at Bonnie Doone Conference Center last night and today. Of course, I said "yes" and am there right now getting ready for a great day of man stuff. There will the archery, retriever demo, target shooting and qualifications, a pistol range, turkey calling, and a a couple of wild game meals. Plus, probably a good bit of camo, and an overflow of testosterone.
It's always a blessing to be asked to participate in these kinds of events, and I'm glad I said "yes". But, I have to admit I'm the most unlikely candidate to speak at this kind of event you could imagine. Well, yes, the manhood thing appeals to be and I'm proud to be male in every way. Sports has always been on my personal agenda, I do have a Concealed Weapon Permit and a few handguns, and am a avid animal lover, especially when prepared medium well. In all frankness, I'm not much of a hunter, rarely go fishing, and only own one pair of camo pants. Harriet has given me some of the popular Columbia brand outdoor wear for Christmas the past couple of years, mostly off the sale rack. What's more, I doubt if Oliver (our ten year old Shi tshu) would qualify as a proper hunting dog either.
But, I won't be intimidated by all that stuff because it doesn't make a man anyway. In fact, my topic for the weekend is "When I Grow Up to be a Man" and will be a review of King David's life , when he became a man, and the resume he bought into to his leadership of Israel. There's also a few coming of age tales that should make things interesting. It's going to be a fun day.
And who's to say who's a man and who isn't. I did stay in a Holiday Inn Express one night---
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