I love to fish.  Many times when I fish, it is early evening when I go out in the boat with my dad, after a day of activity or work.  But this one particular morning I decided to venture out by myself, and I was truly captivated by the beauty of the day.  The sky was the bluest blue.  The birds were singing, the frogs peeping,  The butterfly flew off right in front of me.  The animals seemed overjoyed it was spring at last and the butterfly in particular danced delightedly in celebration of her freedom and joy.  Yet, at the same time everything was so still and peaceful.  I forgot all about the fishing and was lost in thought.   I enjoyed a quiet few moments of relaxation and appreciation of my beautiful surroundings.  I was not thinking of any one thing in particular.  My thoughts were simple and were appreciative of this lush, natural setting that seemed almost overabundant in its greenery.   I felt grateful for my boat, for the lake, for the animals that seemed to welcome me to their little corner of the world.  Day to day I rush to get so many things done.  In between, I am checking my phone and planning the next thing to do.  Even when I am out fishing, I am often checking my rod to see if I caught anything yet.  But this day was different.  I was content to just be.  I am a social creature and usually do not like to be alone.  But this day I was my own best friend.  This morning on the lake was a day to remember because I reflected on what it meant to be alive and just how glorious our world is.  Like spring, which brings renewal to nature after a frozen barren winter, this inspiring scene lifted me to a place filled with  hope and optimism.  Now sometime before I start to fish I take a moment or two to breathe in my surroundings and be thankful for what I see and feel.