My mom gave me a new fishing rod as a gift for my birthday in September.
I had her write a note on the cork base of the rod,
As a way for me to always remember her on my fishing trips (which are pretty rare).
The note simply said "Good luck!"

It was just a few weeks ago that she wrote that note.
Now, it's hard to believe she is no longer here.

I took a brief escape for just a couple of hours.
I went fishing this morning, a beautiful Fall morning.

The lake was calm.
The setting, peaceful.

I really didn't care if I caught a fish.
That's not really why I was standing there at the side of the lake.
I just needed a brief escape.

Occasionally a gust of wind would sweep through the trees,
And several more brown and golden leaves would fall, drifting downward,
Some settling on the water, some on the shoreline.
They reminded me of the season.  It's Fall.

Normally the Fall is my favorite time of year. 
This didn't feel like Fall to me.  I missed most of the Fall this year.
My focus was diverted to caring for my mom,
And Fall almost slipped right past me.

As I think about it, I wasn't really missing out on "life" this Fall.
If anything, I was truly experiencing life in its fullness more this Fall, than
I may have ever experienced life before.

But no, it hasn't felt much like Fall.

I look down at the fishing rod in my hand
And smile as I see the words "Good luck!"

More leaves softly drift to the ground.

I look across the waters, a tear blurs my vision.

The leaves serve as a reminder,
I have reached another end to a season in life.

Next:  The Little Girl Who Died in My Arms

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Copyright: Please do not republish any of these writings without first obtaining my permission. (You may contact me by clicking on the Contact Kevin link).  All of my writings are Copyright (c) 2005 Kevin Gourley. All rights reserved.   Any reference to them should also reference the web page address as well.