The Fisherman

I often hear a story about a man who walked along a pier and saw a fisherman. The fisherman kept reeling in fish and throwing them back into the ocean. So the man walked up to him and asked why he kept throwing the fish back. The fisherman looked at him and replied “because they’re too big for my pan.”

This story is often told by folks who speak of abundance and prosperity that more is always better. Their conclusion, given the response of the fisherman, is that he needs a larger pan. I agree to a certain extent; but I see an additional moral hidden in this story.

The fisherman is obviously gifted at catching large fish. In my opinion, if God wants to give me large fish time and time again, I would graciously accept His gift. This man’s cup is overflowing. He has an abundance of fish and I think throwing them back comes from a place of lack as he could easily save some fish for later or feed others with all of the fish he is catching. As my wife always says to our kids, “sharing is caring.”

Also we read a reminder that saving some for later is a great strategy for longevity. Imagine if we were to catch a thousand pound Tuna fish. There isn’t a person on the planet that could eat it all, let alone a pan that could hold it in one sitting. But let’s face it, a thousand pound Tuna is a LARGE fish that can both be shared and saved. The lessons here are being thankful and giving.

We’re all prosperous and wealthy at something. It’s just as good to enjoy our wealth and abundance as it is to save and give some away. How do we know how much to share, give or keep? We listen to God’s voice within us. That wee small voice that creeps up when we are at peace and quiet will tell us exactly what we are to do.

We’re here to share the wealth and knowledge of Chiropractic, health and well-being. Please also share with others. As BJ Palmer said, “You never know how far reaching something you say, do, or think today will change the lives of millions tomorrow.” When you do, you’ll find God’s love and abundance flowing back into your life, “30, 60, or 100 fold.”