story distateful

Hunting story not about

achievement, but ego

After reading "Montana teen scores massive bull elk," by Jim Mann of Hagadone News Network in the Bonner County Daily Bee dated Tuesday Dec. 18, (Page 5), I felt compelled to write to you as you may not be aware that not all your readers were impressed by the senseless killing of the magnificent bull elk; on the contrary many felt repulsed by it.

The heading might also have been worded, "Montana teen inducted into the killing of majestic creature in the forest."

Several of your readers that I have communicated with regarding this story found the events described in the article as distasteful and heartless. I am sure it will be appreciated that many people living in the Pacific Northwest value and respect the wildlife of this area.

I would briefly like to make three comments. Firstly, it was sad to read how a 13-year-old girl was led to the killing of a "monster bull elk;" the father was "shouting at his daughter to shoot." Instead of fostering the qualities of respect and kindness towards this animal she was strongly exhorted to take its life.

Secondly, the article described this act as if it were something meritorious and something to feel exuberant about, like an A grade in music or math.

What chance did this non-aggressing creature have against high-speed .280 caliber bullets ripping through the bone, tissue and organs of its body? Now what exactly was the achievement?

Thirdly, by any reading, could the description "…unleash another round that struck the bull in the back, causing him to collapse," bring anything but the feeling of revulsion for any individual sensitive to the pain of other living creatures.

The article finishes with how awed the father and daughter were when up close to the bull. However, no consideration is given to the fact that not only had they deprived it of its important role within the herd, but had abruptly stolen its living power to awe.

There is a saying at this festive season that "who gives, gives thrice, himself, his needy neighbor and Me;" conversely, we may also say, "who takes a life, takes thrice, himself, his victim and Me."

By publishing this story as a heroic act, the Daily Bee is perpetuating the power and status of the gun within our society and reinforcing egos that take pride in being "in the top 10 ever killed in Montana." One wonders how the thrill of taking the life of such a magnificent animal could exceed the special joy of simply observing it.

Lastly, I have to say that the juxtaposition of this piece right below "Santa Claus is coming to town" is unfortunate for reasons that are obvious.

Ian Rutherford

Hope