ENTHUSIASM 365 DAYS A YEAR
The sport is still fascinating after the racing season is over. Why not keep the buzz through the winter? There are books to read,films to study and the communication between enthusiasts. Much can be learned by examining each bird everyday and looking at future breeding possibilities and of your future career in the sport-write an article,present a trophy. At the last resort you may be a politician in a local club-where egos exchange power. Some early pairings and breeding will keep you focused,and watch out for predators and diseases. I gained much pleasure by observing the birds flying out during the winter,especially on a frosty morning or in a snow shower-ice next to the bone makes you feel alive. I respect the old boys who put in a half -century of dedication,for the pure love of the pigeon.
Jim Emerton.
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IN SEARCH OF THE LOST SOUL
I have spoken to and observed people eg with psychosis or senile dementia,who are alienated from their core personality. Some of these are not in good connection with their inner psyche. They may be deluded,numb ,fanciful or emotionally disturbed. People in trauma or breakdown may be in a spiritual vacuum or empty place. Sometimes ,with catharsis the sense of a united,integral self is healed and restored with the ego and full psyche in relative balance and harmony. An aware,intuitive person can sense this in others. Globally there are thousands of lost souls who may form a belief system via religion. I feel the sage finds truth within himself.
Jim Emerton.
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GIVING CREDIT.
The sport would benefit by the proper giving of credit where it is due. This act is linked to generosity of spirit. Who has helped you along the way,given advice and knowledge or supplied the birds as a mentor perhaps.? Many fanciers are insular and like to rest on being perceived as top dog,when many have been involved in the process. The infrastructure of the pigeon sport is complex and a little citation of authorities is sound protocol. None of us appear on the scene by magic-from little acorns big oaks grow. I feel, with less obvious commercialism ethical standards would improve.
Jim Emerton.
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THE GENUINE FANCIER
I have encountered every sharp practice known to man and can spot a smooth operator on the horizon. It is idealism and a bit soft,but i like to give back to the fancy: to show a little generosity of spirit. I have enjoyed being a mentor,supporting and coaching others in all aspects of the game from practical to psychological and over many years. The notable success has been Nicholas Harvey who has shone as a racer up to Barcelona,developing the nucleus of a top strain based on my 41 years of dedication to certain bloodlines. It will be nice if one of the other protoges reaches the same dizzy heights of success,when the hard-nosed reality is the product of years of dedication to marathon racing. This article is to recognise those people who make a lasting and genuine contribution to the sport.
Jim Emerton.
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