Vladimir Batinić from Calgary shares his journey regarding his son’s interest in hunting. Despite his own complicated history with firearms and hunting stemming from his upbringing during the Bosnian war, Batinić found himself conflicted when his son expressed a keen interest in hunting, a passion not entirely aligned with his own values.
The societal judgment surrounding hunting added to the complexity of Batinić’s feelings, especially as he reflected on his past experiences with firearms. Despite his initial reservations, he eventually introduced his son to hunting activities, emphasizing respect for nature and safe firearm handling.
Over time, Batinić’s personal interests shifted, leading him to embrace activities like yoga and opt for vegetarian meals. As his son’s enthusiasm for hunting persisted, Batinić struggled to reconcile his own changing perspectives with his son’s passion. However, a pivotal hunting trip with his son resulted in a successful deer hunt, marking a significant moment of pride and connection between father and son.
Through this experience, Batinić realized the importance of supporting his son’s interests, even if they differ from his own, ultimately strengthening their bond and understanding. The journey of acceptance and growth exemplifies the challenges and rewards of navigating generational differences in recreational pursuits.