It’s so cliche’ it just might work.
It’s no secret that attitude is everything, especially when you realize that your perception becomes your reality and it does. It has something to do with the Jo-Hari Window and the Self-Fulfilling Prophecy. Okay, okay…I know what your thinking, “what the hell is he talking about this time!?”
Good friends can tell you anything in any way, and sometimes many ways. At least that’s how it was with my best friend Pete. Some of you will remember that Pete taught me fly fishing and now that it’s almost a year since we lost him I am realizing he never stopped teaching. Yeah, I know, that’s the kind of sentimental BS that everyone says. Well, yeah. God forbid you ever have to find out what its like. But back to the point.
It’s been hard to get into fishing as hardcore as I used to be about it. For a while I thought I was losing my interest in the sport, yeah right. What I did lose was a few more rough edges that can come with excitement, intrigue, and passion for the sport. While all of those components push and pull us deeper into the sport they can also take away from the essence and the mystery that captured us in the first place.
Pete was more disciplined than I ever will be. We would get out of the car and I would be half-way to the water, still pulling up my waders, gear falling out of my vest right and left, while Pete was just getting his rod together. I was always thinking to the future, what if someone beat me to “my spot” what if we are above or below the hatch, did I buy enough floatant, did I get the right flies? I forgot the words of Yoda, but there was Pete. Strolling down the bank 15 minutes later with a smoke and a smile. Time slowed down because he told it to, and time listened. It took me a long time to learn that lesson and I often need reminders. It’s easy to fall out of the moment and into the future. It’s also just as easy to keep harping on the past.
Be in the moment. It will instantly improve your attitude and your day. Note the flowers and trees, really observe your surroundings. Breath slow, breath deep, walk slow, stop and sit. Focus on what is here and now only, it’s all connected, and will welcome you into the moment. I was lucky to have had such a great teacher and friend. I am lucky to know so many great anglers and friends. Take-r-easy.