Follow the flow

Following the flow of a meandering river has to be one of the most enjoyable and relaxing ways to spend your time. You come across so much, if you are paying attention. Nature, wildlife, civilisation and, if you are unlucky, people. I’m joking a little bit about the last one, but my main purpose for a walk like this would always be peace and quiet.

Rivers change so much, around every curve there can be a new world to be discovered. Sometimes they are as straight as an arrow, running through the city, fortified against flooding. Then they can become a wilderness of tall grass, where childhoods are spent hiding and forts are constructed. Maybe they run through industry which seems a tragedy as an adult, but as a child was a wonderland of unknown and dangerous intrigue.

But, however you view them, they are a source of life. Veins and arteries, which cross our lands giving sustenance to all the organisms which depend upon them. So they must be cherished, cared for, and not allowed to deteriorate. For, if we are not careful, before long they may clog. And what were once healthy vessels with fresh water coursing through them, could become choked trickles struggling and shrinking.

So, as with the body, we must be careful what we put in, what we take out, and check regularly for any problems. Treatment must be quick and, hopefully, we will all live long and healthy lives together.

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish

By the River

Such a magical place. In the heart of the city, a peaceful paradise. Sometimes it is a place to be alone, to contemplate or just to switch off. But at others, a place to be with your child and share the wonders of nature.

My favourite place to be, next to the water. I don’t have to have a rod in my hand, although it feels good if I do. But I am just as happy without one, maybe it is replaced by my camera, maybe by a good book. Or, perhaps my eyes are all I need. All you need to do is look, and most of us do not.

When you spend time next to water, you will notice so much. If you are there for the weekend, then you will spend a lot of time watching, and thinking. If you have your eye to your camera, you will begin to see details that you never noticed before. Look and think and your eyes will be opened, and maybe your mind too.

People think that fishing is boring, but there is always so much to think about, so much to see. Our lives are full to the brim. When do we stop, look and listen?

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish