A Fishy Date

The woods was quiet except for the chatter of birds and the gentle sound of the stream as it wound its way past us. We came prepared, armed with fresh bait, fishing poles and a tackle box. The only thing to hinder our fishing experience was the endless supply of mosquitoes.

 

My childhood fishing pole caught my very first fish that day!

We tramped through the thicket trying to find the very best spot. He caught four fish, but decided to throw them back. I was unsuccessful at getting a bite. After relocating several times we gave the bottom of the falls a try. Dusk was upon us so we didn’t have much time. My line, ready and loaded went into the water. Would I ever catch anything? A few minutes went by and suddenly I felt a tug on my pole. For the very first time in my life I reeled in a splashing catfish. Catching fish is one thing, but touching it is another. Brad was quite a gentleman, he picked the fish up and carefully removed the hook that it had nearly swallowed. After the surgery it was tossed back into the stream. The whole evening was lighthearted and fun.

His parting prayer that night was very heartfelt and kind. It left me feeling so important, loved and cared for. As I went to sleep, his journal entry was still on my mind. In his own special way he had asked if I was ready. I hadn’t answered his question yet, but I knew in my heart it would be a resounding YES!