Gone Fishin

"Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after." ~Henry David Thoreau

Today marks a final work day before an extended holiday weekend here in the United States. On Sunday we celebrate the American holiday called Independence Day, which is not the one depicted in the movie with Will Smith. It is a time to remember those that fought and waged for our independence as a country. Along with the barbecues, parades and fireworks it will be a fun weekend.

It is also a weekend where I would love to be on a quiet lake. To be out in the middle of the calm waters with a fishing pole, cigar and cool drink catching fish. It is a serene thought that crosses my mind which takes me to that lake. I guess you could call it that 'special' place inside my head. Catching fish, quietly, consistently and then putting them back going about my business without any fanfare.

I have watched those fishing tournaments, the fancy fishing boats that some use. The racing across the waters to areas found with fish finders and six different pre-lured fishing poles. All going after the high profile fish, making a large impression on the viewing public. These fisherman are good at what they do and deserve credit for the work they do.

Those of us that do not have the expensive boats and sponsorships still get out there. We read the currents and temperatures, looking for a place to throw out our line. The catch can be hard at times but the result is still a great feeling. We go about our fishing without fanfare or notoriety.

The interesting thing is that we tend to forget that we actually fish every day. We enter into other peoples lives and impact them in ways we may not realize. But with each encounter or "catch", we have the ability to impact them in a positive way. To impact them such that when we leave or "throw them back", they are a little better.

So whether its down by the fishin hole or at the neighborhood grocery store, we are all fishermen in one sense or another. We can be high profile fishermen such as Anthony Robbins or Dr. Phil helping people create great lives. Or we can be the normal average Joe, "catching fish, quietly, consistently and then putting them back going about my business without any fanfare." Each of us can make an impact on another, each of us can make a difference in the lives of someone else.



Keep out the "Gone Fishin" sign and enjoy the wonder of it.