Growing up in a family of boys, Christmas at our house was normally a lot of fun. A lot of rowdy, but a lot of fun. And from time to time, not just happiness, but scrappiness. Whether it was fights over toys, disagreements over who had to do the dishes, or who got to be in charge of the TV remote, there were some moments that mom just wanted to pull her hair out. And plenty of moments where dad all of a sudden disappeared, because he suddenly realized he “had chores to do” and left mom to pick up the pieces.
As a dad of five sons, I’ve had the good fortune (and by good fortune I mean bad fortune) of seeing first hand just how scrappy things can get with a house full of boys at the holidays. I have friends who either grew up in a house full of girls, or who now have a house full of daughters, who tell me things are even scrappier in that environment. At least, that’s what I’ve been told, I could be wrong. (But I doubt it.)
Of course I’m sure this isn’t the case where you grew up, or in your home today… I’m sure it’s all just the happiness, not the scrappiness. Hey, I believe in Christmas miracles!
Whether scrappy or happy, in just a few days from now, many of you will gather with your friends around the Christmas tree or gather with family to celebrate the holidays with a huge meal. Some of you will have so many holiday parties and events you’ll lose track of which is next. For others, Santa will pay a visit and bring lots of smiles and plenty of laughter. Whatever your holiday traditions may be, I hope and pray that it’s a time of peace, joy and love.
2017 has been a tough year for many in the industry. Recent months and weeks have given us some much needed relief but the year has still been challenging for many of our members.
As is so often the case at this time of year, it’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going. As such, there are many companies looking ahead to 2018 and hoping to see a more positive landscape. And while I’ve never been very good at predictions, I’m banking on some very good developments for the coming year.
If there’s anything I’ve learned in the past 12 months, it’s that this industry has a scrappy side, and folks aren’t willing to lie down without a fight. It’s one of the big reasons I admire the shooting sports business and why I’m so proud to come to work each day to support it. I guess you might say, “It’s how I was raised.”
But seriously, the scrappy attitude, the resiliency, the desire and determination to succeed despite the odds are what make this industry so great, and why it’s succeeded for so long and through so many difficult times. The shooting sports industry has a great legacy, but we are nowhere near the final chapter of this story. There are plenty of pages left to be turned. Long live the “spirit of scrappiness.”
May your bellies and your stockings be full this holiday season. May you laugh uproariously and cry tears of joy. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Until next time,
Kenyon Gleason
President, NASGW