Handyman...The extinguishing of a life is a powerful thing. That is why the vast majority of aboriginal peoples honor the animals in their various ways. Even in Germany, where hunting is more like shooting fish in a barrel, some of the lodges practice the rite of thanks by having the hunters lay across the animal as a way to show the respect to the animal.

The deeper issue is most likely that everything in this world has been "Bambi-ized". This may sound harsh..but they are just animals. However, we must smartly manage wildlife through sound conservation and harvest practices. Due to the success of these programs the deer populations on the East Coast have exploded, as you are probably well aware. Through careful culling of bucks and the occasional does the herds have responded very well. The deer are almost as pesky as woodchucks, rats and rabbits; they are everywhere.

This may sound odd, but I have no problem with a true trophy hunter. Consider this; how many true trophies are out there? It may take a true trophy hunter 3,4,5 or more seasons before they find the animal that is truly a trophy. Also, they usually won't fill their tag at all. Despite the "failures" leading up to that take they are still buying licenses and gear. In general, supporting the sport. Additionally, they typically donate the meat. Now your boneheads who just want a rack for the wall...they shouldn't be hunting...period. Let them buy a resin rack from some retailer.

If/when you are present at the final breath of an animal or human you come face-to-face with your own mortality. Very powerful medicine. Some have sworn off hunting due to that experience alone. Your decision will no doubt be guided by your own worldview.

I will leave you with this... The fact that you are affected shows you are willing to confront some of the larger issues in the human experience.