Not Going To Nationals

[j1b]

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

[sfinney]

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

[tightloop]

Great Post...

[Jeeper]

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

[lynn jones]

good post jack.

i think phil s. will be glad to take your spot.

lynn

[dajarrel]

Great choice. Other Nationals will come along. The right wife is a once in a lifetime event.

dj

[gmshtr]

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

[eerw]

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..

[John Dunn]

I'd put this in the Maturity forum. Nice.

[cpty1]

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".