Sunday Service

I went to Church today. Well sort of...You see I went fishing and at this point in my life where I fish is as close to God as I can get. It is a special place that I hold dear to my heart. It’s place where I can disappear and forget about the world, a place where I can become one with the elements. It’s a place where I can get lost in a calm breeze or a fierce winter blizzard. It’s a place where I can find inner peace with myself and most importantly a place where I can catch wild steelhead.
It has become so special to me that I feel an obligation to protect it. So much so, that I have developed a profound sense of ownership and responsibility. Maybe this is for selfish reasons but I like to think that the results can only benefit the resource and the others that share in my sentiments. One cannot put a price on such a place and the healing powers it provides. The resource is for all to enjoy and will be there if we all exercise ethical precautions. I spent an hour Sunday afternoon sharing a coffee with the Landowner that has so kindly granted me access across his property for years. We discussed how things have changed in recent times. He spoke to the lack of respect and courtesy exhibited by the area visitors. He spoke to the destruction of the trail network from unwelcomed ATVs and the increase in river bank litter. He spoke to uncomfortable confrontations he has had on his land and where this all was all eventually going to lead. During our conversation he said something that sparked a flicker of hope. He said "I don't feel like I own the land as much as I feel an obligation to look over it and protect it" If we all do our part we can all work together to keep special places like this.