Tonight, l was to be observed in close proximity executing my given assignment; this would not be easy for me as my family would be, in some way, involved.

Following my instructor’s directions, l had placed my feet approximately twenty four inches apart, and made sure l was standing on a flat secure surface, to be certain the balance of my body was essential to my intended actions.

Standing up straight l looked in the direction l thought my quarry would appear. I turned my neck, looking first left then right, undertaking the same movements a second and third time, then l moved my shoulders up and down a small number of times, and made myself ready for action.

Slowly l bought the stock of the riffle to my right shoulder; it fitted perfectly as if it had been custom made, especially for me.

At this very moment l felt elated and nothing could make me back away from my commitment, this was family honour.

It was important to get everything correct so l calmed myself down as best l could, after all, it had been me who had volunteered for this adventure, and l had a bunch riding on my success.

My heart was beating faster than normal; l could feel it pumping inside my combat jacket.

Standing the rifle down for a moment, leaning it against my leg, l took my glasses off and quickly gave them a clean.

It had been raining, and my glasses were wet, but now they were clean and dry, this was the big one and l was now as ready, as l would ever be.

Next to me, a voice whispered softly into my ear with a decree of urgency,

‘We only have a few moments left now.  Stand firm; be confident, one shot is all you need.  Do not pull the trigger, remember slowly squeeze the trigger when you see your target appear in your sights.

Your target will come into view, starting from your left.

You have three shots, but for God’s sake make the first shot do the job, and we can get out of here quickly and have a hot dinner.

Are you ready, nod your head if you are’

I nodded my head, my veins were pumping, and l could tell my blood pressure was up, l can always tell when that happens.