I'm in earnest.

For instance, I abhor guns, but I learned to shoot with either hand until--well, I'm pretty expert.
And roping! I can build a loop, jump through it, do straight and fancy catches like a cowboy.

I worked at it for months, years it seemed to me.

I knew very well it was a ridiculous waste of time, but I'll never forget how proud dad was when I learned the 'butterfly.' That was my reward.

Horses used to frighten me blue, but I learned to ride well enough.