I have been told on a few occasions
that I am "an asset" to metal detecting, or a good
"ambassador" of the hobby. This is certainly a huge compliment
which does not go unappreciated,
believe me! (On the flip side, I was also called a bad influence
because someone felt my profile picture was too provocative—So, six of one half
dozen of the other.)This got me to thinking though; what does it mean to be an asset to the hobby of metal detecting? To me, an asset would be, say--a kick ass set of wireless head phones, a machine that rules out pull tabs, or maybe even a really good sports bra? Something that greatly benefits the detectorist in a tangible way.
Meanwhile, the term ambassador, when taken literally means "spokesperson" or "promoter"... Do we really feel metal detecting is in need of promotion or any sort of cheerleading squad? Let's face it, attracting new detectorists to the hobby means more coils on the soil which isn't exactly advantageous to those already scrounging for sites. But it does equate to more history being saved, so I'm better than okay with that.
When contemplating the terms "asset" and "ambassador," it is important to understand their context as confined to the metal detecting subculture on social media; not the hobby itself. In other words, if I am found to be an asset or ambassador by the court of social media, I do not immediately "qualify" in the eyes of a landowner.
Imagine a permission pitch based on testimonials like: "WaterDigger says I'm a cool chick" and "NuggetBrain thinks I'm the bomb!"? Not privy to the metal detecting subculture or its dialog, the landowner will stare back in abject confusion. This also means they will not be judging based on someone's long-time feud with "FindsRecoverer" or "BadDiggahGal." Thankfully, I will not lose out on a permission due to DirtInvestigator's judgment of my latest profile picture, or someone questioning my "dedication" because I produce YouTube videos. Landowner's will be more impressed over references from their neighbors or a well-respected member of the community.
The point is, metal detecting doesn't have a "reputation". It is not a living breathing thing. So it would take a hell of a lot more than a little bit of Facebook drama to do any wide-spread "damage" to the hobby. I'm more concerned over rolling up on a property after a landowner has watched a television show depicting targets dug with a backhoe, or having to apologize because some yay-hoo has left gaping holes all over the place. When I am standing there, shovel in hand, the only thing the landowner really wants to know is whether I have nefarious intentions or will damage their property. Hashtag Are-you-going-to-kill-me-or-my-lawn!
The world of social media, with all of its personalities, often results in an overdeveloped sense of self-importance based on popularity; which means nothing in the real world. I do appreciate the compliments, and take them as a reflection of my integrity and recognition of the skills I have developed. However, my hope is we will all embrace the traits which go along with those titles; owning the ideal of what it is to be an "asset" or "ambassador." This translates into respecting property, building the trust of landowners who have had bad experiences, and positively influencing and mentoring newer detectorists. When it comes down to it, every one of us is capable of being an asset and ambassador of the hobby. And that my friends far outshines any minor rumblings from the mythical "dark side of detecting" lurking in the distant corners of the internet.
xoxo Siren Kimmie (HDIC Girls Rock Metal Detecting)
© 2018 Siren Kimmie/Girls Rock Metal Detecting. All Rights Reserved.
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