Nature's tribute
Bob Arndt
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Americus
MAYBE the primal world pays tribute; maybe it is just a human emotional thing attempting to put feelings into perspective. Whatever the case, here is the story so you can decide.
Beau Arndt was taken from his family and friends while doing what he loved most -— hunting geese from a reclining blind surrounded by goose decoys and two hunting buddies. A shot from a poacher ended Beau’s life on earth.
Beau loved, studied, imitated and stalked the game he took to provide food for family, friends and the hungry. His favorite prey were turkeys, geese and deer. The Bible states animals are for us to take for consumption and clothing. On the day of Beau’s funeral, as we journeyed to his final resting place, was it nature’s tribute or a human-needed comforting thought?
First, as the carriage with Beau and the following cars containing family and close friends proceeded, a large flock of Canada geese circled the sky within a few hundred yards of us.
Then, driving down the highway halfway to the cemetery, we noticed a group of five deer close by, standing, staring directly at the passing carriage. Then another group of deer within another quarter mile stood at attention, watching us. All of this was at 12:30 p.m. on a warm December day when normally these deer, during hunting season, would be bedded down under cover during daylight hours.
As we watched in awe the sight of 11 deer watching us, Beau’s brother, Seth, said from the back seat, “They are here because they knew it was safe.”
We laughed and agreed because we all knew Beau for the great hunter he was.
I am not sure whether it was a coincidence that the deer were seemingly saluting a respected enemy or if it was just a human emotional rationale.
I feel it was nature’s way of honoring those they feared, yet respected. You decide.
V V V
Chris and I would like to say how much we appreciate all who have come forth after the tragic loss of our son Beau. We thank our family, friends, neighbors and all who have provided comfort, food and support. Thank you to the people who gave their time, effort and sacrifices that aided in the identification and apprehension of the person responsible for this crime.
Thanks to law-enforcement officers and the staff of the Lyon County attorney’s office.
Thank you for the outpouring of cards and letters literally from across the nation. Thank you to the many individuals, businesses and organizations for your monetary support that will help promote hunter-safety programs.
Thank you to the media for your respectful coverage of this incident. Thank you to all.
We are hopeful that some good will arise from this reckless, preventable tragedy. With the aid of Beau’s memorial, we hope that hunting will be made safer for all.
Once again, thank you.
Bob Arndt’s son Beau Arndt was killed while hunting in December in Lyon County.
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Posted by cheryl (anonymous) on January 31, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Animals know.
Thank you for sharing this great story, nature's tribute to Beau.
So sorry for the loss of your son. I wish I'd known him.
Posted by Pollyanna (anonymous) on January 31, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am in awe of your grace and ability to see the positives in your tragic loss. I am so thankful you were able to witness the wildlife on your trip out. I do believe it was a sign. Peace to you and your family in remembering and cherishing a wonderful young man. You are teaching all of us lessons this very minute. Thank you.
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