INTRODUCTION
As I enjoy the twilight
of a long and fruitful life, I find myself with more time for reflection and less for
action. But action is best taken by younger elves, and I am left wondering
if everything that I have learned will die with me.It is funny how an awareness of one's
own mortality inspires one to write. Even myself, with dozens of
grandchildren and hundreds of great-grandchildren, feel the compelling need to leave a
mark upon that world that so thoroughly marked me.
The key, I have found, is patience.As a hunter and reluctant warrior
with some six centuries of experience, myself, I know that many of the most decisive
battles are won with this very quality.
In the following pages, I have tried to remember those lessons best
taught to me and those I have taught to others. I spent much time as a trainer, and am
told that I am a good teacher. I hope that this translates sufficiently into the pages of
this book, as well.
Those thoughts are divided into the following
chapters:
