Family Traditions!

One might ask, what is considered a virtuous or good thing to do for a loved one? There are many answers to fit this question that is for sure. What comes to mind for myself is simply this, What do we as parents pass along to our children? What values do I instill? The term "Family Tradition" is becoming a scarce and rare thing in this modern day and age with the new generation and our dependency on technology. Many family traditions are left by the wayside or simply forgotten. As I thumb through my photos seeking a source for an article to enter into this contest, a series of pictures triggered this thought above. I decided to write my story about tradition or you might even call it sentimentalism, and how I feel this is something that my kids will reflect upon in years to come and maybe just maybe they will continue the cycle.

My Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather were all great outdoorsmen. Hunting and Fishing was just a way of life, and everyday activities revolved around these traditions that provided food for the family. Now I'm talking way back in about 1913 when this sort of all begun. My Great Grandfather purchased a new Excel 20 gauge single barrel shot gun for "Hog Killin Time". If not mistaken it cost $7 dollars. Well this little shotgun was now a family firearm that would be passed from generation to generation. My Great Grandfather only had one son, and of course he was given this gun upon becoming a young man. My Grandfather later only had one son (my father) whom this gun was also passed along to. In addition it became the gun my father killed his first squirrel with, probably around 1947. Now, my father also only had one son (me), which also followed the same suit and it is this same gun that I killed my first squirrel with as well in about 1979.

It is really amazing to think of the history and family struggles that this gun has made it past, the Great Depression, World Wars, theft, poverty and tough times. Yet it is still a treasured heirloom that is dear to my heart and will never leave this family circle.

Now back to my point. Well here I am and guess what? I don't have Son to pass it along to but I do have two adorable daughters. I made a point to keep this tradition alive! Both of my daughters love to hunt and fish and I try to give them as much opportunity as I can. So I thought it was very special that I was able to take each of them when they were ready to kill that first squirrel, and even more special is the fact that this old shotgun is still making memories. I made certain to tell them this old story so that they might pass it along to my grandchildren when that day comes, who knows maybe I can take them on that first hunt when that time comes.


So, I guess my point here is that I believe the great things that I can do for my loved ones is to keep tradition and family values alive and strong. I know the feelings that come back to me every time I pick that old gun up. I want my children to experience that same feeling and know that someone loved them enough to share those memories with them.

The pics below are from some years past and I really can't believe how much they have grown since this time. Thanks for getting this far along in my story and allowing me to share my thoughts.