It was many years ago and I was on a flight from Lubbock to somewhere when, bored with the drone of the jet engines at 36,000 ft altitude, I picked up one of those airline magazines and began flipping through the pages. Seeing an article on the relationship between age and relative thought patterns in various age groups, I began to read with some skepticism at the accuracy of this research. For example, with the passing of years people began to reflect more on what is really important in their lives as well as who, if anyone, was an influence in those formative years of a younger age.
My two sons, Hunter (L) and Pate (R) who showed me that I was capable of love beyond what I had ever imagined, and continue to be the pride of my life. Tin Type Photo by Robb Kendrick, National Geographic
I would guess that this in flight reading occurred over 20 years ago and now, with the aid of a couple or more decades for the maturation process to change my mind, I am going to admit my error in thinking that the research results may have proven inconclusive.
It would be correct to say that my life has been one filled with adventure, excitement and not just a few accolades. Because of such a fulfilling life some have suggested that I am blessed while others exclaim that I am lucky, and I will say that without a doubt I have to agree with both.
When life is going good and obstacles are few, it is very easy to think that inherent incentive and talent have alone carried us to our personal goals. Few will deny entertaining those occasional thoughts of grand achievement. But age has influenced my thinking, in more ways than one, and I find myself quietly thanking those who have given me opportunities or influenced my own personal philosophy that paved the way for the wonderful life that has blessed me for over five decades. Most of these people have already gone to cut a trail for those of us still trudging up the summitless mountain called life, but some are still here, available for us to convey in person, how they have made a difference.
I would like to devote this page to all of those who have opened the doors of opportunity in my life. Although this written offering falls woefully short of space to name them all, I hope that everyone who has made a difference knows that, like the countless young men and women who have sacrificed for the cause of freedom in all of the wars, I have not forgotten.
3 Comments
I see the Wyman Meinzer blessing as having understood and enjoyed the man you are and the path you have taken. Who would have thought that a man living in Benjamin, Texas his entire life would have been so blessed by the natural world and the gifts it has given you. And just think, you started off trapping coyotes. Now? You are a somewhat well-known photographer, content with your identity and blessed with a fine wife and two young sons.
You’re rich my friend, rich!
Michael Roberts
Canyon, Texas
You say so eloquently what many of us think but don’t have the ability to express. Growing up in the time and place that I did and having known those that went before me make me among the richest people on earth. Thanks for saying it for the rest of us.
Wyman, I was blessed with the privilege of finally having the opportunity to meet you June 4,2010 when I went back to my roots for our Knox City Homecoming. I was born in Knox City and grew up on a farm/ranch 9 miles west of town on the Brazos River. My dear friends whom I’ve know since we were in the 1st grade took me to Benjamin to meet you. Thank you for autographing my book (I now have 3 of your beautiful books) and for taking me on a tour of the old jail in Benjamin. I fell in love with your pretty little granddaughter and your two beautiful wolves. God bless you. Georgia