Drop the Ego, Pick Up Love

Dad’s love for the outdoors, especially deer hunting, was a true source of joy in his life. The family hunting cabin, The Newwood Hilton, became his sanctuary—a place where he could escape the noise of the world and reconnect with nature and the people he cherished. For him, it wasn’t just about the hunt; it was about the camaraderie, the shared laughter, cooking, and the simple pleasures that made the experience meaningful.

As a young adult, I longed for my father’s love and understanding. During my freshman year of college, I poured my heart into a letter, sharing my feelings of loneliness and self-doubt. His heartfelt response, full of empathy and openness, changed the course of our relationship. He taught me the power of emotional honesty and the importance of overcoming fear and self-criticism.

Two weeks before Dad’s sudden passing, he left me with a powerful piece of wisdom: “You own your own mind.” These words have been a constant source of strength and clarity ever since. But this hunting season, I’ve come to realize that true empowerment is not only about being aware of our thoughts, but also about voicing the emotions behind them.

This hunting season, I invite you to see deer through a new lens: Drop Ego, Embrace Reconnection (DEER). By shedding our egos and reconnecting with our hearts, we can cultivate self-love, resilience, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.