What I Learned From Norm
I made a new blogo-connection recently with Robert Hruzek at Middle Zone Musings. He is hosting a writing contest. Well, not so much a contest as an opportunity to write about what we’ve learned from a unique source. Here’s my entry:
What I Learned From Norm
I met Norm ten years ago. He is the father of my friend Mike. We started an annual fishing trip to Ontario, Canada in 1998. Norm was the ‘senior’ member of our troupe.
The rest of us were in our 30s (then!).
When you spend a week in the wilds of Canada with someone, you get to know them quite well. Hours in a cabin, hours on a fishing boat, hours of unfettered conversation. You learn that not everyone goes to bed at 10p, or likes to get up at 6a.
From Norm I learned the goodness in a piece of toast, the value of a great afternoon nap, and the imperative of being ‘in the moment’ as one of life’s greatest rewards. Each sunrise, each meal, each fish caught, each eagle or loon sighting – all amazing to him.
The lesson to take here is to live one step at a time. At work, at play, at home – don’t think too far ahead on your “to do” list. When you’re out walking the dog, don’t worry so much about what’s for dinner. You may miss a blue heron in flight. Trade off that beauty – in the moment. When you’re in a meeting listening to someone update you on their goals for the year, don’t be focused on the project waiting in your office. Trade off the energy of the person in the meeting. You get the idea.
Norm died earlier this year. He will be missed by all who knew him. Especially his Canada fishing buddies. The legacy of ‘in the moment’ is forever part of me.
Thanks, Norm.
Stumble it!
Joe Raasch :: May.04.2007 :: Employee Engagement, Life :: 14 Comments »
Joe, what a great memory, and valuable lesson from Norm! He’s left a great legacy in you; it’s up to you to pass it on! Hey, wait a minute – you just did!
Thanks for sharing that one, Joe!
Too true. Now perhaps I should stop reading this blog and concentrate on my work
[...] “… Norm”, by Joe Raasch at The Happy Burro [...]
[...] “… Norm”, by Joe Raasch at The Happy Burro [...]
[...] “… Norm”, by Joe Raasch at The Happy Burro [...]
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A “warm” post. I too try to follow the same policy in life, living for the day, rather than worry about the implications of the “fun” i am currently having.
A wonderful entry and a great reminder to appreciate the little things. Thanks so much for sharing this story.
Yvonne
Grow Your Writing Business
[...] “… Norm”, by Joe Raasch at The Happy Burro [...]
[...] “… Norm”, by Joe Raasch at The Happy Burro Getting the most out of each moment in life. [...]
[...] I don’t know about you, but I don’t have to go on a fishing trip to appreciate toast. Ah, the joys of toast and a sunny-side up. [...]