Yesterday, I caught a fish (actually, I caught (and quickly released) two) with my hands. It was at the Herring Run Park (Friends of Herring Run Parks) in Middleborough, Massachusetts. Although I've lived in Massachusetts for most of my 43 years, I didn't know about the Herring Run until yesterday. I'm so glad I learned. If you can't tell, that's authentic joy on my face. I felt extraordinarily...human, reaching into natural running water, picking up a living fish, and then lovingly returning it to where it could keep swimming. The herring have always been there. However, over the centuries, people have changed how and why we do and don't catch, trade, and feed them--to ourselves, the soil, and lobsters. :) Despite these many changes, I was struck by three seemingly constants that made me really happy: 1) There was no admission to this park to take part in this natural occurrence. 2) Herring Run-goers brought their two and four-legged kiddos, and everyone did a really good job of looking out for one another. 3) Most seemed to want nothing more than to be one (or close) with the fish. I didn't see any signs of anyone even slightly interested in hurting. However, there were some, like my son and a few pups, who preferred to admire from a distance. There are so many initiatives and projects, especially at work, that require advanced tools, evolving methods, and sophisticated approaches, all often necessary and essential to optimal performance. I think all of these advancements and changes become the most effective when those who design, implement, and rely on them stay rooted in what makes us uniquely human—when we value and remain curious about our experiences, emotions, and creativity. So, that's my longish endorsement for sticking your hand in a running stream or whatever natural equivalent opportunity comes your way this week. #practicewhatyouteach #getoutside #marathonmonday #optimalenvironment #catchandrelease
Cristine Trayner
6mo
I didn’t know about this and I will now need to go to this place!! How fun.
You crack me up!
Super cool!!!!!!
Director of Employer Engagement at JVS Boston | Workforce Development
6moWe used to be able to do this at the pond in our backyard which was stocked with trout. So cool! Hope all is well Amanda!