Thursday, October 10, 2013

D-E-T-E-R-M-I-N-A-T-I-O-N "Never say never"

So it seems I and others have become fixated with all the missed opportunities that the Flood of 2013 brought.  Missed opportunities at fishing that is.  High dirty water, flushed out roads, swamped entrances, and ponds that look like lakes now seem to be what we are faced with.

Or, so it seems, however, I am tired of my own whining and misfortunes.  It could have been much worse and I know we will live to see beauty return to our trout streams and our ponds will be fish havens again.

A couple of days ago, I came across this picture from The Hatch Magazine over on Facebook.   It  hit me in the heart, you might say.  Then and there, I knew it was time to suck it up and push onward and "Never Say Never" when thinking about fishing opportunities available for meWhat an incredible picture! Do you think this ol' guy wants to be pitied? Hell, no! He just wants to be on the water and casting that fly rod and can't hardly wait for the anticipated tug on the end of the line.  Had I been on that stretch of water at the same time, I think I would have stopped doing what I was doing and just watched this ol' guy for awhile.  He's my new hero!

Then I thought, you know what, lets not forget the great organization that is PHWFF  or in longer form, Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing.  This incredible organization is: Dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and disabled veterans through fly fishing and associated activities including education and outings.
You may or may not have had the opportunity to see some of their actions and activities up close.  Let me share a few pictures with you.  While you are looking at them, think about it! It takes "Determination and a Never Say Never"  attitude.  I think I will "Buck Up" and go fishing!!


             I got this one, no problem, Bro'!

          Some dry fly therapy is just what I needed!

          Match This Hatch, America!


12 comments:

  1. I couldn't agree more Mel. I admire and respect those that have made so many sacrifices to protect our freedoms. PHWFF is the least we can do to support those that serve/served. Including you old dude.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Howard. PHWFF caught my attention a few years ago and I have tried to be supportive and involved if possible. This old dude may not have had any physical disabilities, but, those mental scars don't go away!

      Delete
  2. Replies
    1. Thank you, Mark. Sometimes it takes a visual to stir the emotions from within. Thanks for the support as always!

      Delete
  3. Great post Mel! I always need reminders like this to help keep things in perspective.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, David. Sometimes I lose perspective and start feeling a little sorry for myself. Then I see or hear something and realize that it could be much worse. God bless, PHWFF!

      Delete
  4. Mel
    Where there is a will there is a way and this guy found it. That may be all of us of day soon. Thanks for sharing

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Bill, you sure hit the nail on the head with your comment. Hopefully, it may be awhile for you and me and some other ol' guys we know. When that time comes, may we all have the will to find a way!

      Delete
  5. Well, that's the last time I complain about a 45 minute walk out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Josh. Sure makes a person feel kind of sad when you think about all the complaining we sometimes do just in order to fish. Brings another perspective too it, doesn't it!

      Delete
  6. I love this group of brave souls. Never say never is right! My motto also...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. RD, they sure a sterling reminder of what courage, hope, and dreams are all about! Great motto, too.

      Delete

Your visit and comments are always welcome here.