Recently I spent a weekend with several friends at a shack in the woods that some of us laughingly call a “hunting camp”. The old building is more than just four walls and a solid roof, it is a place where we can renew friendships and make new memories. The men who gather there are friends of many years. Of course, when any group of like-minded people get together the bonds continue to grow deeper over time. A shared love of the woods brought us together and now only death can separate us.
The most recent gathering started on a rainy Friday and ended on a sunny warm Sunday. Most of us were able to make the trip from our parking area to the shack without getting totally soaked. But the all around dampness made the fire in the fireplace all the more welcome. The location is far enough back in the woods that vehicles cannot traverse the area so we are limited to walking or a small ATV. It is all part of the adventure and certainly adds to the feeling of remoteness.
There are always some small projects to complete (stacking firewood, replacing a broken window) but the greatest joy is just gathering there. Catching up on life or sharing our dreams and discouragements around a campfire brings a necessary perspective to what we may be experiencing. Before long the laughter flows freely and all seems right with the world.
Certainly a significant part of these mini reunions is cooking and eating. Different meals are planned and prepared with everyone contributing ingredients and assistance in the endeavor. With all of us being experienced open campfire cooks, sometimes each of us takes a turn and other times one will shoulder the bulk of the cooking. No matter who cooks, it is difficult to imagine the food tasting any better. The menu can range from venison to pork loin to homemade sausage to Delmonico steaks (with appropriate side dishes) and no one ever goes away hungry. It is all part of being together.
The most important aspect is the companionship of great friends and the opportunity to share freely. We have all seen good times and bad but we also know that we each have support from the others. Each time we come together it feels like no time had passed since the last gathering. With modern technology we can reach one another quickly; whether text, call, or email. And we also know from experience that nothing truly replaces a conversation around a campfire, and that is what we always anticipate fondly.