Here is a golden oldie from my archives - not a long story but one that rings true - enjoy!
Children Trappers
Deep in the hearts of most children lies a hidden spark of an outdoorsman. They dream of being like Tom Sawyer or Huck Finn, living off the woods and waters. Perhaps they wish to be as adventurous as Lewis and Clark, exploring unknown woods and waterways. Or they long to live free like Jim Bridger, Kit Carson, and the other Mountain Men of old, roaming the wilderness with no boundaries.
Trapping is a way for children to explore the world beyond their backyards, venturing into areas they might never have dared to explore before. It is a tool for them to learn and understand the intricacies of nature. Through trapping, they will learn the habits, tracks, and signs of the animals that inhabit their environment. They will discover which areas are more likely to produce signs of wildlife because those places are more heavily traveled and used by the animals.
In their journey, young trappers will also discover the importance of sustaining animal populations. They will learn that high animal populations can lead to the spread of diseases like rabies, parvo, and mange, which can devastate populations and harm the ecosystem. By trapping in moderation and managing animal populations, they play a vital role in preventing such outbreaks and helping to maintain balance in the natural world.
Robert Frost once wrote, “The woods are lonely, dark, and deep, But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.” For the trapper, the woods may be dark and deep, but they are never truly lonely. The trapper knows that they are never alone out there—the animals, birds, and even the wind keep watch over them as they navigate the wilderness. The trapper’s promise is to check their lines, maintain their traps, and harvest the animals they’ve caught, regardless of the weather or the conditions.
Through the act of trapping, children learn resilience, patience, and respect for the natural world. They also learn that there will always be miles to go before they can rest, a promise to the land and the animals they share it with. Every day on the trapline is a journey—sometimes long, sometimes tough—but it is always rewarding.
In the woods, the trapper’s world is alive, full of movement and purpose. There are no empty miles, no wasted time. As they trek through the quiet of the morning frost or through the deep woods at dusk, the trapper feels the connection to the wilderness grow stronger. They learn that the work never ends, but neither does the adventure, for the woods are full of promises to keep and miles to go before they sleep.
