Clarity, presence, and clarity of presence attract me to the stream. While clarity gives me the ability to see the contents of the stream and to feel more in control, it magnifies my presence to the inhabitants of the stream.
The stream itself is enough for the peace I seek. The more I seek to fully understand the stream, the more I understand its inhabitants. Let’s face it, I wade the stream in part to stalk trout. I’ve learned that if I want to catch trout I must understand trout behavior. I also know that I have much yet to learn and practice.
While understanding doesn’t give me control over trout behavior, understanding gives me control over my own behavior as I seek the bounty of the stream. The bounty is wary and I must work hard to understand this worthy adversary. As I intend to lure the bounty from the stream, I have had to learn how to practice stealth.
In the sense of wading the stream, stealth is less about concealment and more about making a connection. Stealth is the skill acquired from practice, guided by an ever-developing understanding.
