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Passing on the Legacy of Fishing |
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Written By: Joe Breunig (http://www.bunganutlake.org)
Brother Dave 2
Passing on the Legacy of Fishing
Maintaining a common, lifelong bond
Bunganut Lake, Summer 2002:
 During the summer of 2002, my brother Dave and his family were able to join my wife (Joyce) and me for a day at the lake. It was a marvelously, beautiful day; the sun shone brightly, gentle breezes wafted over the shoreline and the air temperature was in the mid 70's with low humidity. (For those familiar with weather in New England, it was perfection at its zenith.)
For two hours prior to dinner, I was privy to observe my brother as a loving father, fishing with his young children - 2 boys and 1 girl. Tenderly working with each child individually, he helped them make sure that the filament was free from snarls, test cast the rod and reel, placed a worm on the hook and designated a fishing spot. In approximately fifteen minutes, our budding fishermen were engaged. Sitting down beside me, we had front row seats to watch the kids and lakeside view. We quietly chatted about the perfect conditions and watched the excitement of fishing build in each child. The squeals and cries of delight were such a pleasure. As one child caught a fish, the other two would rush over to see the newly captured, prize fish - both to participate in the catch, as well as to check out the competition. Dave would jump out of his seat, assist the child with the hook removal, show each one how to properly handle and release the fish. At their young ages, there was obviously no jealousy among the siblings. It was a team event - it was a family event - it was them versus the lake. For every successfully landed trophy, the moment served to encourage and motivate DJ, Derek and Danielle to desire more. Their tireless efforts were handsomely rewarded; between them, the children caught three fish, 1 turtle and the lavish praise of their father. It was clear to see each child's confidence rise, secure in the love and presence of their father.
In our home state of Maine, parents have the opportunity to purchase lifetime fishing for their offspring when they are young. Even when the child grows up and take up residence in another state, he/she will still have the privilege to fish when returning to Maine. By giving such a gift, parents increase the likelihood of maintaining a common, lifelong bond with their children by sharing the joy of fishing. And yes, Brother Dave has purchased these lifetime licenses for his lovely children. Hopefully, my wife and I will get many more chances of my extended family joining us at the lake. Though I do wonder if they have inherited their father's dislike for fish consumption; only time will tell.
(Photo: David & Elaina Breunig; the children, starting clockwise from the left are: Derek, DJ and Danielle)
Joe Breunig is the webmaster of Bunganut Lake Online.
Clipped and used with Permission by Joe Breunig (http://www.bunganutlake.org)
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