The benefit might be as simple as an unusual creature you see or a rock you bring home with you and put in a special spot.

But when someone you’ve met in the outdoors — whether hunting, fishing, hiking or camping — turns out to become a best friend, the benefit becomes more special, a lifetime link to the outdoors.

It has been through the hunting tradition that I have proudly met and made two or three best friends. These guys were not only good outdoorsmen and hunters. They were also honest, hardworking family men.

We did not always get our deer or wild game limit. But we joked and laughter came easily.

We also learned we could trust each other to be on time and help one another regardless of the weather or unexpected problems. We had fun, too.

I am sorry to say I am losing one of my deer hunting partners and friends. Time has taken its toll and we won’t be deer hunting together this season.

My time in the deer woods won’t be the same without Ron.

It is a blessing to say we will stay best friends. Our friendship would not have happened without our passion for hunting in God’s great outdoors.

Memories we share are priceless.

Ron and I speak for many thousands of seniors in Pennsylvania and elsewhere who are still an important part of our hunting tradition.

We seniors were given a blessing by being given a love of the outdoors and wild game we seek. Let’s say we live with a hunter’s heart.

While we don’t hunt to live on the wild game we seek, we still live for the enjoyment and camaraderie of the hunt and the outdoor memories we make.

So the next time you hunt, fish, camp or hike with a partner have fun, do what you can to keep them your best friend.

In due time your outdoor adventures will end, and you’ll be glad you remained friends.

Oh yeah, having a lifelong best friend that results from sharing the outdoor tradition is the best fringe benefit you can get.

Steve Loder is a former Cranberry Township resident, life-long hunter, conservationist and, with his wife, author of the Quality Venison Cookbook series. He now resides in Ellwood City.