Editor:

Man is the environment’s worst enemy. The environment was created to operate and sustain on its own. If it weren’t for man, I don’t think we would have as many vanishing or extinct species. If man needs the meat to sustain his family, use the whole animal as the Native Americans did, with respect and appreciation that would be supported by history.

This week I was taking to someone about one of my cats. He laughed and said, “There’s a nine cent cure for that.” I was raised with the saying that the only good cat is the one in a canvas bag sunk in the river. That’s no longer my path. I am no longer in competion with my fellow man fueled by testosterone. I now see cats as unique animals that I accept with neutrality and repect for their individuality and characteristics. I now believe that all animals were put on this planet for a reason, and who am I to decide which ones I think should live and which ones should die depending on my opinions of prejudice or greed? Hunting should be guided by the luck of the draw, not manipulated by self interest.

I love shooting, and grew up with an appreciation for the outdoors, but I think that when we are talking about finalizing the life of an animal, we have to maintain repect and appreciation for its existence, rather than its inexistence. I believe that man should not leave footprints when in the forest. How does man treat the forest when he buys it? Ownership in many cases voids stewartship. Native Americans believed that no one can own what the creator made.

We should not be arguing pro and con of its existence, but be guided by preservation and respect. We don’t have to dominate the environment to support its future. The environment belongs to all, and should be preserved and protected by all to support it existence. Special interest should be replaced by objectivity.

Measure twice before you cut. Life is a terrible thing to waste.

Food for thought…

Craig Strid, Rhinelander