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Was It Worth It? Doug Peacock's Unconventional Life and Legacy

John Updike

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Doug Peacock, An Environmentalist, Writer, And Adventurer, In The Wilderness Was It Worth It? Doug Peacock

Was It Worth It?

by Doug Peacock

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36452 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	293 pages

Doug Peacock was a man of many talents and passions. He was an environmentalist, a writer, an adventurer, and a philosopher. He was also a deeply troubled man, who struggled with depression and addiction. In his autobiography, Was It Worth It?, Peacock tells the story of his life, from his early years in Montana to his time as a wilderness ranger, a writer, and a conservationist. It is a deeply personal and thought-provoking account that will resonate with anyone who cares about the natural world and the human experience.

A Childhood in the Wilderness

Doug Peacock was born in Livingston, Montana, in 1942. His father was a rancher, and his mother was a schoolteacher. Peacock spent his early years exploring the wilderness around his home. He loved to hunt, fish, and trap, and he developed a deep connection to the natural world. However, Peacock's childhood was not without its challenges. His father was a strict disciplinarian, and Peacock often felt like an outsider. He also struggled with depression, which would plague him throughout his life.

A Wilderness Ranger

After graduating from high school, Peacock joined the U.S. Forest Service as a wilderness ranger. He spent the next several years working in the wilderness areas of Montana and Wyoming. As a ranger, Peacock was responsible for protecting the environment and educating the public about the importance of conservation. He also had the opportunity to spend time alone in the wilderness, which he found to be a source of great solace and inspiration.

A Writer and Adventurer

In the early 1970s, Peacock began to write about his experiences in the wilderness. His first book, Grizzly Years, was published in 1975 and became a bestseller. Peacock went on to write several other books, including Walking the High Country and In the Shadow of the Hunter. He also became a sought-after speaker and lecturer, and he traveled the world to talk about the importance of conservation.

In addition to his writing, Peacock was also an adventurer. He climbed mountains, rafted rivers, and hunted big game. He also spent time living with Native American tribes and learning about their traditional ways of life. Peacock's adventures were often dangerous, but he believed that they were necessary for his growth and development as a person.

A Struggle with Depression

Throughout his life, Peacock struggled with depression. He first experienced symptoms of depression as a teenager, and they continued to plague him throughout his adult life. Peacock's depression led to periods of self-destructive behavior, including drinking and drug abuse. He also attempted suicide on several occasions.

Despite his struggles with depression, Peacock was able to achieve great things in his life. He was a successful writer, adventurer, and conservationist. He also had a loving family and many friends. However, Peacock's depression never fully went away, and it eventually took its toll on his health. He died by suicide in 2008.

A Legacy of Conservation

Doug Peacock was a complex and contradictory figure. He was a brilliant writer, a courageous adventurer, and a passionate conservationist. He was also a deeply troubled man who struggled with depression and addiction. However, Peacock's legacy is one of hope and inspiration. He showed us that it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve great things. He also taught us the importance of protecting the natural world and living in harmony with the land.

Was It Worth It? is a powerful and moving account of Doug Peacock's life. It is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. It is a book that will make you think about the meaning of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest.

Was It Worth It?

by Doug Peacock

4.7 out of 5