Everyone of us who loves to fish chuckles at the bumper sticker that reads: “The worst day fishing is better than the best day at work.” Those who never wet a line may find that philosophically disparaging, but it is not. There is no disrespect toward our jobs.

Instead, some clever word-smith captured in a few words what is deeply embedded in the soul of every person who loves to fish. No matter what musical tastes a person has, those who fish treasure the same favorite song. It is the whistling of our line being stripped from our reel when a big fish strikes.

There is no tune with that song but the timbre is distinct. Some add lyrics to the song once the rod bends in half and the fishing pole tip dances madly. No matter how many times we have heard it played it is always exciting to hear it again.

Non-fishing friends have looked at me cross-eyed when I laud the joys of fishing. Their faces contort. Finally, as polite as they can be when they are in a disagreeable state, they moan, “Fishing is boring!”

It’s time to smirk back. I understand their attitude. People who only want results will miss out on what fishing is.

If someone tries fishing with the expectation of bringing home lots of fish every time they fish, they will be disappointed. But, fishing is not first about filling a creel or double loading a stringer. This sport is called ‘fishing’ and NOT ‘catching’!”

I love fishing with anticipation. Fishing is a sport that ALWAYS gives me the experience of hope. Past successes are pocked with many ventures to water that do not produce. A stop at the market on the way home from a “bad day” fishing to pickup a package of hamburger for dinner is not unusual.

But, the worst day fishing is better the best day at work. When there is no catching, what can beat a day is spent in the middle of God’s breathtaking creation? My work, which I deeply appreciate, is marked with problem-solving, casting a vision, churning out correspondence, balancing budgets and increasing revenue streams.

So, when I invest in one day to relax and give my mind a break from the stress of work, it is a wonderful slice of life for which I thank God. No wonder Jesus hung out with fishermen while He walked this earth!