In the beginning…
Once, not really so very long ago, my boss came to me and said “What do you know about bird watching?”
“I know that people do it.” I replied.
“Well,” he said “we’re sending you to the national bird watching convention in a couple weeks so you can learn what it is all about.”
That week-end, I went to my local bookseller, bought a couple of books on the subject, came back home, went into the back yard, looked at a bird, and tried to identify it. Two weeks later I was in Duluth, Minnesota at the American Birding Association National Convention. I had a life list of 9 species – most correctly identified, all from within sight of my home.
I learned many things during my week in Duluth. I learned that bird watchers more often than not call themselves birders. I learned that far more people do it than I ever imagined. And I learned that bird watchers are quite possibly the most friendly, accepting, and welcoming of all the groups of people I have ever met.
That was just over five years ago. Since then I have spent quite a bit of time on the road, helping my employer to expand our sales among bird watchers, meeting hundreds of avian enthusiasts from around the world, and chasing about in the field with some of the best professional and amateur ornithologists anywhere to be found. My professional marketing position and company credentials gained me access to the top levels of this world, and I am indeed greatful for all that I have learned because of it – but something was missing.
I lacked the personal experience of most if not all of those around me. Most people who watch birds begin humbly, sometimes as children, sometimes as adults. Some take it quite seriously and seek an occupation that will allow them to engage in their passion full time. Others, equally serious though they may be, remain amateurs to the end, seeking only enjoyment from their efforts. For me, it had always been tied to my job. I never had the chance to develop as a bird watcher in my own right.
I recently left my position in marketing for one in corporate education. I no longer have a large company paying my travel expenses to the most famous birding spots in North America. I am, for the first time, an average bird watcher – and happily so.
The experience is a bit like a religious re-awakening. I have lost none of my existing experiences, but I now see what has become a guiding thread in my life in an entirely new light. I now have the freedom to become my own bird watcher. To take chances and make mistakes with only my own pride at stake. The experience is really somewhat cathartic. I thought I would thus share my experiences, discoveries, rediscoveries, observations, philosophies, and other assorted items of interest with anyone caring enough to read them.
All are welcome.
Peace and good bird watching.
December 8th, 2007 at 7:29 pm
What an interesting way to find a hobby.
I’m glad you enjoy it, your writing certain reflects your passion.