obsession- the domination of one’s thoughts or feelings by a persistent idea, image, desire, etc.
I become interested in a lot of new things frequently, but it is a rare occasion that something becomes my obsession. My obsession for the past couple of months, though, has been duck hunting. It only took one time for me, and I was hooked! In the short span since that first outing, waterfowling has become something of an addiction. Addiction is the only explanation for wanting to wake up at 4 a.m. and sit in the dark and freezing cold to shoot at a bird that doesn’t taste nearly as good as the chicken in the freezer aisle! There is an anticipation and an excitement in hunting, though, that I have found in few other hobbies.
So why do I call it an obsession? Well, in these past couple of months, if I have free time, I am duck hunting. If I am not duck hunting, I am thinking about duck hunting, reading about about hunting, or looking for new places to hunt. I spent every dime of my Christmas money this year on outfitting myself for duck hunting. I justify this envelopment of my time and energy by saying, “Well, the season only lasts for a few more weeks, and then I can start thinking about normal things again.” Fortunately, I have a very understanding wife.
But sometimes I feel guilty about my obsession. I realize that duck hunting doesn’t really hold any eternal significance, and that I have, at times, ignored the things that do (relationships with people, spending time with God, helping others). How do I find the same obsession in those aspects of my life the way I have with duck hunting? I don’t just want to find a balance, I want my obsession to translate into other areas of my life!
What is your obsession? Does it consume your thoughts, ideas, and feelings? How does your obsession translate into the other parts of your life?
It was fun. I am thankful that we both have understanding wives. We are truly blessed. I am also glad that duck season is coming to a close. I agree that any hobby requiring so much time, energy, and money seem eternally unfruitful. But, we have obviously built a stronger relationship from it. I have been introduced to something new that may be worthy of some thoughts and energy. I will tell you more when I learn more.