One catch, one movement, one synchronous action. It’s in the moment. It’s a thread that connects people, places and things. One catch is a term used in Dragon Boat paddling which exemplifies this thought. A dragon boat will move effortlessly through the water if all paddlers have their paddles enter the water to start the pull in the exact same moment. If they pull with the same effort and exit the water at the same moment – these are added bonuses. Also a dragon boat is a team effort – so it doesn’t matter if you are superhuman, just getting into fitness, recovering from illness – you can enter the boat and join in on one catch. The boat moves poorly if paddlers are not in unison – but if the paddlers are in harmony – watch out, its a thing of beauty. I can tell you from experience it’s awesome.  

I came to the Paradise City Dragon boat team after having surgery for cancer. It’s funny how the Universe brings things into your life at the right moment. I was looking for support after this experience and I found this wonderful boat. Paradise City Dragon Boat is a team of cancer survivors and their supporters. Members can also be people whose lives have been touched by cancer. Members can also be people who want to be part of this wonderful ride. You get to go outside with a great group of people, enjoy the river, enjoy nature – be present in the moment – and paddle.  You can forget your fears – you can let life go and be part of one unit, one catch, one movement that is dragon boat paddling. You feel part of something.   You will not be alone in your cancer journey as you have comrades in arms – those that have walked your path – those that will give you a big hug.  You get to exercise  and move – which is so important for your health. Again I say – how awesome is that ! One Catch. 

So why is this blog called One Catch? I like what One Catch represents. In the grand scheme of things we are all connected. When we all stay in the moment, feel that connection, embrace it – see that even though we may all be different in so many ways – we are all the same – it feels wonderful. The divisiveness of today’s world makes this even more important. If more people would find ways to be part of One Catch in their lives – what a beautiful thing it would be.