Editor’s Note: This feature first appeared in our companion service, The Archery Wire.
Growing up amongst corn and cattle in the middle of South Dakota, I spent most of my time finding my own way. I am the youngest of four – and there’s quite a bit of age difference – so did I have imaginary friends? Perhaps. But this was also the result of Gen X traditional upbringing: being left to our own devices, which I wouldn’t have traded for the world.
I created whole worlds around our family farm. I found comfort with my own company, as well as books, music, sewing, taking care of my calves/rabbits/chicks/ducks and making mud pies or rock art (one tends to get creative on the farm.) And of course, coming up with new ways to get out of milking cows. I would literally do anything to get out of milking cows. Today, I am quite good at being on my own and finding things to do, create and explore.
However, that also meant I wasn’t that good in large crowds or extensive social situations. Attempting to find my way without guidance was filled with ways of getting it wrong. I learned by keen observation because sometimes, I was too shy to ask (yes, even extroverts can be shy!) And this is still how I work. I would rather sit back and take it all in to learn versus charging in thinking I know it all.
What has emerged from a lifetime of these uncomfortable experiences has been my deep commitment to always sharing what I have learned in the hope of making things easier for others. Hopefully you’ve seen that theme in Archery Wire over the last five years.
Because, frankly, it has been hard for me to find my way on my own in this industry and I want to make it easier for you.
What I write here, in Archery Wire, or within SHOT Business or Shooting Industry magazine, or speak in my podcast with Chef Scott Leysath, or on stage at ATA or SHOT Show, are rooted in my desire to share what I can to help you and your business.
Today, I want to encourage you to do the same.
Never underestimate the wealth of wisdom that you have earned in your lifetime and how a simple sharing of information might help someone onto their path, especially when it comes to learning a new skill. We all know what it's like to feel clueless, left out and intimidated by everything from classes to equipment to stores.
Your knowledge is never too elementary because you don’t know the path people are taking.
We can be the ones who generously share knowledge, experience, and resources. We can be the ones who are welcoming, who notice when someone is lost, who offer intel as well as kindness - with no attachment or pressure, just the sincere desire to help.
Perhaps I am thinking about this since November is about showing gratitude and thanks. I am thankful you read my random editorials and I love the feedback received when you learned something of value. Thanks for being here, and if you’d like a lesson on how to make mud pies or rock art, just let me know.
-- Michelle Scheuermann, editor, Archery Wire