From 1974-1977, Wyman lived here alone. Based in this tiny one-room cabin, he trapped and hunted in solitary retreat, but his trek away from civilization was more in keeping with the spirit of the ancient desert fathers than the bent of a recluse. Wyman's journey followed a path of hard work, severe discipline and astounding productivity.
Immediately after college graduation, when classmates went off to more predictable career tracks, Wyman took to the wilderness. His first year at Batch Camp (shortened from "Bachelor" because a few months there persuaded him no married man could pursue life in such austere surroundings) Wyman sold 205 coyote pelts and 39 bobcats - enough to keep him going. He did it again the next year, and the next.
I know some people do what they do because that's what they can do. Wyman is a bit different. Wyman does what he does though he could do many other things. His choices along the way have cost him dearly and rewarded him handsomely. I had a college professor who said, "You pay your money and make your choice," implying the path you choose will cost you, so you better choose the path that leads to the destination you want. That's what Wyman has done. Knowing there'd be a price to pay, he gave up other things to do the thing he loves.
Nobody has great accomplishment without paying a great price. Nobody.
Now Wyman is one of the greatest predator hunters and photographers alive. He's adjunct professor at Texas Tech University. He's a published author with about 20 books on his resume. He's a pilot. He's been recognized by the Texas legislature as the only official State Photographer of Texas. His images have appeared in Smithsonian, National Geographic Books, Natural History, Time, Newsweek, U.S. News and World Report, Audubon, Sports Afield, Field and Stream, Outdoor Life and many others. His brilliant wife is inquisitive, educated and determined. She runs the business: book publication, marketing, production and finance. Sylinda is gracious and strong (no real surprise when you consider the Meinzers made arctic wolves their current pet-of-choice).
This is the guy I've studied under for the last few days.
I'm a better man for having done so.
Proverbs 2:11 - Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
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Mark - what an incredible opportunity for you... and for the rest of the photo safari group (to have you along on their expedition)! Love the pics; looking forward to seeing all of them. The snake shot was - yikes! - incredible. Can't wait to hear that story!
God's best - praying for you and Sheila!
Posted by: Mark Waltz | October 13, 2010 at 11:43 PM
I am A fan, I have always wanted to live my life out in nature. God still has my allegiance though, and maybe someday I can enjoy more of "the life" God Bless and thanks for sharing.
RW
Posted by: R W | October 14, 2010 at 08:18 AM
Mark, I would have liked to meet you! I went to Wyman's photo expedition the weekend after you attended. Wasn't it an incredible experience!! We were so blessed, I got great photos of a Coyote and unbelievable photos of a Bobcat!! I love to share them with you and visit with you. What an experience, can't wait to go back!
Tammy
Posted by: Tammy | October 20, 2010 at 06:05 PM