In Calgary, Vladimir Batinić shares a personal experience regarding his relationship with hunting and firearms. Despite his upbringing surrounded by guns during the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, his perspective on hunting has evolved over the years. Initially drawn to the military world, a traumatic accident involving a hand grenade detonator shifted his views.
After moving to Canada and marrying, Batinić connected with family members who enjoyed hunting, leading him to partake in hunting outings. However, his vision of hunting differed from his relatives’ more casual approach, emphasizing a deeper connection with nature and the outdoors.
As a father, Batinić faced a dilemma when his son expressed interest in hunting, a passion that conflicted with Batinić’s changing values and lifestyle. Despite his reservations about firearms, he gradually introduced his son to shooting activities, including paintball and hunting training. Eventually, he reluctantly agreed to accompany his son on a hunting trip, opting to support him in a non-hunting capacity.
During their hunting excursions, Batinić and his son navigated challenges and disagreements, with Batinić emphasizing the importance of respecting nature and handling firearms responsibly. Despite their struggles and empty-handed outings, a pivotal moment occurred when his son successfully shot a deer after a series of missed attempts. The shared accomplishment brought pride and bonding between father and son, highlighting the complexity of their relationship with hunting.
Reflecting on his journey, Batinić acknowledges the evolving nature of his interests, transitioning towards activities like yoga and adopting a more mindful approach to consuming meat. Through his experience with his son’s passion for hunting, Batinić navigates the balance between personal values and supporting his child’s pursuits, ultimately finding moments of connection and growth amidst their differences.