A fish named Taco
So many times I find myself rushing through my day. Hurrying along to try to accomplish everything that needs to be done, checks marks through all of the lines on my to-do list.
But, tonight was different.
Last week, my co-worker left me in charge of feeding his Betta fish, Mako, while he was on vacation. As the week went on, I became completely fascinated with this fish. The gentle way that he moved, the ease of which he’d glide through the water. This fish seemed care free and content. I realized that I was enamored with watching Mako so much so that I decided to get my own Betta for at home. I have been making a conscious effort to control my reaction to stress and manage the anxiety in my life. I decided that adding a single, beginners level, fish to our household was a good idea.
We perused the fish section of the local pet store, until we were directed to the section with the male Bettas (read the “I don’t know shit about fish, but want something that lives in water” aisle). The males, notoriously aggressive to other “flailing fin” fish, all held separately in individual containers. We selected our tank, accessories (a living plant, and a Buddha statue) and finally our fish.
As I began assembling the aquarium I realized that I have NO idea how to transfer a fish into a new tank.
But, persistent as I am, I took a step back and allowed myself to truly take my time. I cleaned all of the components, and I read the instructions with care. Under normal circumstances, I am in such a race to complete a project that I intentionally cut corners. This leaves me scattered, but done. This time each piece fit together methodically and with ease. I was careful how I placed the water plant, delicately hiding its roots under the stones. I made a gradual incline of stones towards the back of the tank, and I made sure that the filtration system worked as it should.
The very best part of this whole night was when Tom and I stood and watched as Taco (yes, he named our fish Taco…..) became acclimated to his new home. We stayed, perched with our faces resting on our hands at the counter, for ten…twenty…maybe thirty minutes. Observing, giggling, and relaxing to our new addition’s peaceful movements.
Im always rushing, the point – to get it done. This time, the whole purpose was the journey; the experience. And I loved it. I was relaxed and truly proud of my work.
The most hilarious part of the whole night was how frantically jealous Meika and Early acted. Early simply had to be in between us and the counter, and Meika whined until she was out of breath. Relax! Its just a fish, for Christ’s sake…
**This post is dedicated to little Milford. He was one of three cats that my sister rescued, but he was by far the most unique and sweet of them all. Today was a sad day as he tragically lost his life. Sleep soft, dear friend.
“Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.” – Author Unknown
“Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.” – Author Unknown
