by Kasandra Kessell

Created on: January 05, 2009   Last Updated: January 06, 2009

Hunting.It is a word that can stir up ill opinions on one side, and passionate conversations about the love of the sport on the other. But is it really a sport? The definition of a sport, is a "competitive game", in which you would naturally assume that all participants are willing. However, in this "sport", not only are the animals unwilling, they are left at an extreme disadvantage. We all know that there are some animals out there that are far more intelligent than some humans, but when the human has a shotgun, a thermos of coffee, and nothing better to do than to search for paw prints in the mud, the status quot remains in favor of the inhumane human.

We've all heard stories from our grandfathers about how they had to hunt to feed their families, when food back then was so very scarce. In today's age, we hear tales of how someone killed a larger buck than their buddy. We hear how they did such a good job tracking that stupid animal that almost outsmarted them. Or maybe, how they got the big prize, when they shot the pregnant female. If your lucky, maybe they can even show you the trophy on their wall, you know, to prove their great and undefeated manlihood.

Although I have pointed out some highlights of the all mighty hunter, I would like to say a bit more. I wonder if it is still considered sportsmanlike in the hunting community to shoot an animal, and then lose track of it. Therefore, it is left to die a slow, painful death, wondering about. Or, how about the bullet that missed, and hit a child playing in his own yard on the other side of the woods. I bet no one ever hears about those stories at the local pub. Nonetheless, there will continue to be those who enjoy murdering and maiming innocent animals for their own self gratification. It is a very sad reality that will always exist, because there will always be a need for the underdeveloped brain to feel social existence.

I truly believe that when a person goes hunting, that they are compensating for something lacking in their life. Whether it be a need to have control over something, or the need to "feel" as though they're really a man. No matter what the reason is, it's wrong. Hunting is not a sport. It is a very selfish, and self fulfilling act. Wouldn't it be great if all of the animals were able to use a shotgun? How many hunters would go in the woods then? My guess is not too many, if any. It might take the "sport" out of it.

Learn more about this author, Kasandra Kessell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.