More Than a Hunt: The Lessons from a Morning Scouting Deer with My Daughter
Bringing a child into the world is an unparalleled emotion, yet taking them with you into the wilderness, seeking out wild game in preparation for a hunt, introduces an extraordinary new dimension to the parent-child relationship. The weight of responsibility on my shoulders, the curiosity in my daughter’s eyes, and our shared connection to nature transcended our human roles, transforming me not merely into a human, but a father. Had I not maintained my composure, I may have succumbed to the profundity of the moment.
Our scouting adventure began early, waking Madison at 4:30 AM, a significant departure from her usual routine. Yet her enthusiasm was clear; she was ready! After a farewell to Mama, we embarked on our non-stop journey to October Mountain State Forest in the Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts, a location intersected by the famed Appalachian Trail.
As a parent, I had measured expectations for the trip. After all, Madison is just over three years old, and I was prepared for her to decide that she’d had enough at any moment. Surprisingly, she was fully engaged, captivated by the adventure, pausing only for snack breaks (which were like every 5-10 minutes).
What struck me was Madison’s innate understanding of our purpose and the need for stillness in the wilderness. When I stopped to listen, she mirrored my actions, instinctively knowing that silence was essential not only for scouting but for our very survival. October Mountain State Forest, with its burgeoning black bear population, demanded our vigilance.
Keeping Madison engaged was central to our experience. Her curiosity guided us, and I encouraged her focus on specific signs of wildlife, such as deer droppings, tracks, wild berries, and paths. Her excitement when we found these signs was infectious, and together we documented our findings. Her attention to detail was astonishing, reaffirming that even a young child can be incredibly attuned if guided thoughtfully.
Our exploration was enhanced by our use of the Appalachian Trail, a symbol of adventure and connection to nature that filled me with pride as we encountered fellow hikers. Perhaps one day, Madison would traverse the trail herself. Who knows, maybe I’ll join her.
After an eventful morning, we took a relaxing break in the town of Lenox, stumbling upon a delightful children’s concert. The sweetness of the moment, coupled with delectable macaroons, rejuvenated our souls.
Our final stop at the state forest headquarters provided unexpected insights into hunting in the area. The staff’s willingness to share their knowledge, and their impressed reaction to Madison’s eagerness, was an encouraging end to our excursion.
The drive home was a time for reflection on the disconnection of modern life from nature. Our society, once deeply rooted in the earth, has drifted into an overly industrialized existence, distancing us from the natural world. The ease with which we can remain indoors for days is alarming. It seems designed to detach us from the essential connections with nature and community. I’d say that it is.
It’s time to reconsider how we live, how we raise our families, treat our bodies, and engage with our environment and communities. We must reorient ourselves to the outdoors, nourishing our bodies with what the earth provides, and cultivating genuine connections with others. Join me on this journey to become Terra Strong, embracing life as it was meant to be lived, in harmony with Mother Nature and side by side with our fellow human beings.
Stay free, my friends.
-Greg
Greg Cello, a husband and father of three, is the founder and primary author of Family Forward Wellness. A U.S. Army combat veteran with eight years of service, he’s also a competitive athlete, a published writer in a high-impact journal, and an insider in the biotech and healthcare industries. With degrees in Biology and Medical Sciences, his professional journey has spanned leading biotech companies, venture capital & consulting firms, and healthcare institutions. Driven by a passion for family health and sovereignty from corporate and governmental influence, Greg’s work embodies his belief in parents’ essential role in shaping their children’s lives. Along with his wife of over seven years, he cultivates these values on their Rhode Island homestead, Cello Acres, symbolizing his commitment to enhancing the well-being and independence of families everywhere.
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