Monday, July 03, 2006

Strangers



A couple of nights ago, I was fishing at a nearby park. An older man soon walked out on the dock with two small children, a boy and a girl. The boy had a fishing pole, and apparently their grandfather was taking them fishing. After about 10 minutes, I caught a small white bass. The children were fascinated by the fish. The little girl asked me why I was taking the hook out. I explained that I was going to throw the fish back.

The grandfather seemed nervous about the little girl. He wanted to make sure that she didn't fall into the water, I imagine. She wanted to sit and watch me fish as her brother had done for a few minutes, but her grandfather didn't want her to. I can understand that, as she was probably only about 3 or so. It's amazing how trusting children that age are, and how curious and inquisitive. I wonder how long it takes for us to stop being friendly to everyone we meet. How old are we until we are afraid to trust...anyone.