Phone call

It was -7 below with wind chill, a balmy sun up above and this writer was ready for some "self" time on a Minnesotan lake Christmas day! There were a few other's taking part on this great ice fishing day spread across the bay. I pulled the sled, and found my spot- or hoped to find the fishing spot of the day. Set up my ice house, and began to enjoy the real treasures of mother nature as I feel the energy getting stronger as I come to drill my hole in the ice. Finally, I get the task done, I use a old school auger as true Minnesotans use. Out of breath, I scamper into my ice house, and begin to reflect on how important that this writer can enjoy a couple of hours of pure bliss! The phone rings, I do not recognize this area code, but feel it is important I answer it. A young man's voice fills the ice house, one of stress, and panic. I sit down in my chair, and begin to listen. He is struggling, and apparently has no where else to call. I briefly tell him what I do, and begin to listen. My pole is bending, I watch it then stop. The man quickly becomes silent, I begin to talk. We talk for 30 minuets, he appears stable, and we have a positive plan. I feel lucky to be his phone call on Christmas. We all need support, and for what ever reason, this phone call was another Christmas gift to this writer. I'm hoping he is following through with the plan. I believe that a phone call can make the world of difference, regardless of how dire the feeling is. Back to ice fishing, I did not catch anything on this trip, but I did have the opportunity to listen and provide feedback to someone who really needed it. Remember, a phone call can be the first step in getting help, don't let your pride get in the way, so you to can find your "self" time, and listen to someone when they reach out. Stay in your health, stay in the moment!