Fishing Reflections

Have you ever invited a kid to a place without giving a specific day or time? That was our mistake. He then kept asking over and over until the day really came to go fishing. He made his father have an exact time. He called early in the morning and woke us up to be sure we would be ready on time.

Did I say mistake?...I shouldn't have used that term since it was a wonderful experience where we all learned. I know that all of us experienced some kind of lessons. Puerto Rico provides various water bodies for the delightfulness of fishing activities. Fishing also inspires me to get gratifying pictures.

I will share my reflections as fishing provides time enough to open the doors of imagination, welcoming many thoughts.

Fishing is about fishing tools, fishing hooks, fishing poles, fishing line, rods, nets, reels, baits, boats, skills, patience, time for reflection, knowledge about fish and secrets from the water; also laws, etc.

Fishing is a great activity that provides a peaceful moment for sharing. It is a time when those who have more knowledge teaches those with less. It is a time when different strategies are shown. Fishing provides a tranquil moment to listen to what others say and natures sounds.

I was watching these guys fishing with a happy serenity and focusing on their angling. My dear Greg loves this outdoor activity. Be it a sport, a living or just for the fun of it...I have always questioned myself: "is suffering taking place in the fish body? Do they feel pain as they are taken out of their environment?"

I have read about hunting. The information will come in behalf of the interest or the writer's perspective. Who is really an animal to answer? Many animals pump out tons of adrenaline by the fear of being caught; it is known that these toxins enter the meat.The Bible is my life guide and in Genesis 9:3 it says: "Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything ."

Around the world is known the importance of fish for a good diet. They contain protein, healthy fats, and omega -3 fatty acids. The recommended servings is at least twice a week.

I am very cautious eating fish since I was poisoned after eating one. I also know a friend that swallowed a fish spine and the emergency doctor prescribed a piece of bread with water.

Fish ought to be eaten with awareness of the mercury level. High mercury levels can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and brain. Mercury can damage a fetus or newborn. Pregnant women and children need to watch over the amount and type of fish eaten.

Recommended to eat 2-3 servings a week (Pregnant women and children should not eat more than 12 ounces (2 servings):

Anchovies, Catfish, Clam, Crab, Crawfish, Flounder, Haddock, Herring, Mackerel, Mullet, Oyster, Perch, Pollock, Salmon, Sardine, Scallop, Shrimp, Sole, Squid, Tilapia,Trout, Whitefish.

Recommended six servings or fewer per month (should be avoided by pregnant women and children)

Bass, Carp, Cod, Halibut, Lobster, Mahi Mahi, Monkfish, Perch, Snapper, Tuna (Canned Chunk light)

Recommended 3 servings or less per month (should be avoided by pregnant women and children)

Bluefish, Grouper, Sea Bass, Tuna (Canned Albacore, Yellowfin)

Avoid eating

Marlin, Orange Roughy, Shark, Swordfish, Tilefish, Tuna (Ahi)

Fishing will always take me to the Bible which is the Word of God. This theme is found in many verses and used by Jesus Christ to teach us many lessons.

Christians, being a minority in a pagan world, had their own symbols to identify and enliven their faith. In the fish (Ichthus), the profession of faith was found; the reason for worshiping Jesus and the willingness to die for Him.

The fish symbol may have been inspired by the miraculous multiplication of loaves of bread and fish or the fish that Jesus, after risen from the grave, shared with his disciples (John 21:9). Jesus Christ called His disciples saying: "Come with me, and I will make you fishers of men." They immediately left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4:19 - 20, Mark 1:17).

God has left His message. His Words still live, being heard as we open the doors of our hearts to receive the truth.

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet cast into the sea, and gathering fish of every kind; and when it was filled, they drew it up on the beach; and they sat down and gathered the good fish into containers, but the bad they threw away. So it will be at the end of the age; the angels will come forth and take out the wicked from among the righteous, and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

(Matthew 13:47-50)

This fishing activity fulfilled me in a complete way. I wish everyone could experience the blessings that are in sharing with those we love. I hope my experience helps motivate to find moments of reflection.

The invitation to come to Puerto Rico is still open! I am adding a good link for fishing in Puerto Rico. Froggy213 is writing books of each municipality that will help your journey in this lovely island. You could also read about his fishing experiences in Fishing With Froggy.

Blessings to all!

© Maria Magdalena Ruiz O'Farrill