I thought this was a rather simple concept to understand, evidently not.

hunting means WAY more to me than just a kill. It's a way of life. No one here has said that killing a deer is the only measure of enjoyment, or the only reason they hunt, but it is a measure of success, otherwise we'd all just be nature watchers. I don't understand why so many people just don't want to admit to being unsuccessful.

I went elk hunting this past fall. Didn't get one, I was NOT successful. I made great friends, saw incredible sights, experienced things I've only read about, it was the time of my life, despite failing to kill an elk.
I'm ok with being unsuccessful and still having a great hunt.