j1b Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 So I'm not going to nationals. I've pissed away my couple of hundred bucks on an entry fee only to see it go to waste. What do I like about this? I've got a job. A good job. Does it pay what I put into it? No - But I have it and it pays good so I don't have much to bitch about. I have an incredible wife. She's in Hong Kong this week (I'll be there in a couple). We both work hard for what we've got. You know, some time ago I made the choice between shooting and life. Now I'm able to merge the two. I have an incredible wife who represents all that I am and supports everything I do. I have an great daughter that I try everyday to teach the good things to. Shooting is a part of me - it is who I am. But I made the choice that I've got to prioritize. I've got to make something of my life. Yes, I wish I were going to Nationals - and yes - I WILL SHOOT NATIONALS AGAIN! just not this year. I like the fact that I have other things to put in front. I like that I Love my family enough to put what I want to do aside. I like that I am committed to my job and that I feel like the things I'm doing are the right things. Today I realize that life is a give and take sport. I'll shoot a match on sunday - and I'll do well. I may wonder "what if" about nationals. I'll never have to wonder "what if" with my wife. That's a good life. J Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sfinney Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Well said Jack. I feel better about missing Nats the last couple years due to work, and now this year again due to a recent birth. Helps to put things in perspective SF Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tightloop Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Great Post... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeeper Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Today I realize that life is a give and take sport. I'll shoot a match on sunday - and I'll do well. I may wonder "what if" about nationals. I'll never have to wonder "what if" with my wife. That's a good life. J <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Jack, I couldnt agree more! Although I want to see you at nationals sometime soon! Your wife is also lucky she has someoen who realizes this. Keith Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lynn jones Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 good post jack. i think phil s. will be glad to take your spot. lynn Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dajarrel Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Great choice. Other Nationals will come along. The right wife is a once in a lifetime event. dj Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gmshtr Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Well said, Jack. I'd actually take my chances of not getting a slot, rather than not having you there. You're a legend! BUT, I definitely understand where you're coming from. I've realized that no matter how I do, or what I do, Denielle and Colton will always think that I'm #1! You'll be missed. Phil Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eerw Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 Jack.. nice perspective.. shooting has taken a lot of us to many big matches and to meet new friends.. like you, I count myself lucky to have a great wife and great kids and a great job.. have fun in Hong Kong.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Dunn Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 I'd put this in the Maturity forum. Nice. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cpty1 Posted July 13, 2005 Share Posted July 13, 2005 j1b, I enjoyed your post as I can draw many parallels with it. While I am going to the open nationals as a vendor, I have elected not to shoot as a competitor. For one reason, I was never able to procure a slot. Admittedly, the extra $75 would not stop me from shooting if I really wanted to. Fact of the matter is, I never even signed up on the waiting list. While I was 4th overall at Area 6 last year in open, I was still second in class, so no slot. But, that's a topic for another thread. Secondly, as a vendor, I've discovered I have to sacrifice as a competitor. I can't be a vendor and a competitor at the same match and do either in the manner I desire. I can't keep my head in the game running back and forth between stages and the vendor area. I will likewise ask "what if" about the nationals. Top 16? Who knows now. I made my decision. I think the best answer to the "what if" question is "oh well". Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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