I just recently broke my first fishing pole that my husband got me nine years ago. I wish I could say that it snapped while I was trying to reel in a big catch. Unfortunately, I just got snagged up on a piece of leftover debris from a sunken sailboat. I had no idea how attached I was to the pole until I heard it snap. It broke my heart. I had to somehow find a way to pay tribute to it, since it had brought me so much joy and happiness. I ended up writing this farewell ode to my fishing pole. I hope you enjoy.

Today I lost a friend. It was a loss only a fisherman could understand — my fishing pole. You were my first, but not my last. Today was not our best day, yet it meant so much because it was our final one together. We have shared so many firsts: Our first day on the water, and too many first fish caught to even mention. We have shared the beauty of things that only a true fisherman could understand — the peacefulness in the early morning hours, the sounds of the wildlife around us and the sights that only God could have created. I’m not sure how to say goodbye, but I know I must. I can only hope my next fishing pole brings such memories. You have brought me so much joy. Thank you so much for all the excitement; I will never forget all the happiness we shared.