The 15 Minute Fishing Break

I walk along the seawall, rod and reel by my side. Images of a hurried lunch still fresh in my mind. The cool, crisp January air surrounds me in invigorating fashion as I gaze into the water. Closer to the water's edge I creep. The familiar, striped profile of a sheepshead scurries away as my shadow looms over the submerged rocks.

A lure skips across the surface before settling and sinking. Reeling slowly, I patiently await the tell-tale sign of life in the sea. My first cast yields nothing, however disappointment is the last thing on my mind. With each cast a thought is released. Anger, concern, worry, disappointment, all cast into the glimmering water with each splash of the lure.

My thoughts temporarily interrupted by a thump at the end of the line. The line pulls taught, but returns to a slack state. The battle is postponed this time.

As I encounter another fisherman, we discuss each other's luck. We have both had this conversation probably hundreds of times, yet not with one another. Enthusiasm and optimism can be contagious. I continue casting.

My fifteen minutes have ended. There will be no battles today, although I am not concerned. Refreshed and renewed, I return to the realm of responsibility, and look forward to tomorrow.

I suspect many of you feel the same way. Fishing is our therapy.