40 BOWHUNTER///SEPTEMBER 2019
“Howarebowhuntingandlifesimilar?”̈
By Hans B. Miller
WINNING ESSAY
Grand prize winner Hans Miller, from
La Grange, California, made short work
of this gorgeous Merriam’s turkey on his
hunt with Nelson Outfitters in Sheridan,
Wyoming. His dad, Jonathan Miller, was
with him to enjoy the moment.2019 Youth Hunter Essay Contest
Brought to you byTHERE ARE MANY similarities, but I want to focus on three topics regarding bowhunting and life: perseverance, consistence,
and accuracy.
Perseverance is to persist in an undertaking in spite of opposition or discouragement. Don’t let your physical exhaustion keep
you from that animal you’re stalking. Maybe this is your third run up that steep mountain. Giving up isn’t an option. Persevere,
even if you’re only attempting to hit the target. When you get where you are going, will you be where you want to be?
Without consistence in bowhunting, hitting the mark would be difficult. Whether it’s a bull’s-eye or an animal, consistence is
an influential topic. Shooting your bow requires a consistent anchor point, release technique, and many other important require-
ments. Life needs consistence. Routines are important. A good habit is something you perform consistently. Exercise will become
a habit that you’ll be glad you committed to. Even small stuff demands consistence. If so, you’ll live a heathier and happier life.
Accuracy is being precise or exact. Maybe you need to change a flaw in your equipment, or break a bad habit. If so, modify or
fix it, because when you get a chance to shoot your intended prey, you want accuracy. You can’t live in a haphazard way. We need
to have goals and attain to them. Every good worker or scholar will strive for fidelity during their walk through life. A well-placed
arrow will arrive at the perfect destination.
Withaccuracy,youcanpersevereandconsistentlyhit yourintended mark. Whether it be in bowhunting or life, these three
topicsareafewofthecountlesswaystoapplybowhuntingto life.