| Sometimes, it shows.
It seems kids nowadays have become a little more self centered, less appreciative, and too cool at times. They don't always say thank you without being prompted. You see them in the sporting goods section with their dad scouting out some new gear and dad typically is way more excited.
Yesterday, I headed down to the local landing to use a gift certificate for a half day trip. I was really looking forward to some grouper fillets to be added to the Christmas fare, and it had been quite a while since I fished offshore. I was armed with some new tackle from a Bass Pro trip two nights prior. The weather looked good.
My first indication that there was a problem was when the three guys got out of the truck right in front of me all sporting shirts which included "Marine Diesel Service" on them. I hoped they were going on a company sponsored trip for Christmas, but that they were illigally parked was a bad sign. Sure enough, the landing operator apologized, handed me a coupon for $10 off, and said, "We won't be able to fish today."
As I was just climbing back into my truck, a car pulled in right beside and a father boy about six got out and headed for the door. Back to my comments in the beginning. The dad was beaming and the boy was playing the cool card. I took time to call my wife and tell her I would try to make it home in time to take the girls to school. As I backed out of my parking space, the father and son were returning to their car. The father's face had slacked and he was trying to be supportive. The little boy held his head up, but his eyes were to the ground trying his best to be a good sport.
Initially, I was bummed for myself because days off are often hard to come by. Had it gone off as planned, this kid may not have said thank you on his own. Or perhaps played down the big fish when telling the story to mom. But when I saw the look of disappointment on this little boy's face, I realized how important this fishing trip with dad really was to him. My point is: Sometimes they don't show it. Sometimes they forget to say thanks. But don't ever be fooled into thinking that a fishing trip with dad isn't paramount in your child's life. Today, tomorrow, and for he rest of their lives.
Merry Christmas to all. And to all a good night. | 
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