The Invisible Water: A Lesson from Two Fish
I was reminded of this beautiful metaphor the other day while reading the book, “The Myth of Normal,” by Gabor Mate. It goes like this.
Once upon a time, two fish swam in a vast, clear river. They glided through the water every day, enjoying the gentle currents and the life around them. One day, a curious traveler by the riverbank called out to the fish, "How is the water today?"
The fish looked at each other in confusion. "Water?" they asked. "What water?"
This simple metaphor carries a profound lesson about awareness and appreciation. The fish, surrounded by water their entire lives, had become so accustomed to it and they no longer recognized its presence. It was their environment, their life support, and yet, it was invisible to them.
The story of the two fish invites us to reflect on the unnoticed yet essential aspects of our lives. Just like the water for the fish, we are often surrounded by blessings and resources we take for granted. This metaphor encourages us to cultivate awareness and gratitude for the things that sustain and enrich our lives, even when they seem invisible or mundane.
What we can do
Mindfulness and Awareness: The fish's unawareness of the water mirrors how we can become blind to the elements of our lives that consistently support us. Practicing mindfulness helps us become more aware of our surroundings, our relationships, and our inner resources. It reminds us to notice and appreciate the small, often overlooked aspects of life.
Gratitude: Recognizing the "water" in our lives means acknowledging the daily blessings we often overlook. This could be our health, the support of loved ones, the comfort of a home, or the opportunities we have. Cultivating gratitude can lead to a more fulfilling and positive outlook on life.
Inter-connectedness: The water supports the fish in every aspect of their existence. Similarly, our lives are interconnected with the environment, people, and systems around us. Understanding this inter-connectedness brings a sense of responsibility and care for our community and the world.
How to apply
To apply the lesson of the two fish in our lives, we can start by setting aside a few moments each day to reflect on the invisible "water" around us. This could be through journaling, meditation, or simply taking a walk and observing the world with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, "What are the essential elements in my life that I often overlook?"
By consistently practicing mindfulness and gratitude, we can change our perspective, leading to a deeper appreciation of life and a deeper sense of connection with everything around us.
So, next time you find yourself caught up in the rush of daily life, take a moment to pause and consider, "How is the water?" You might be surprised by the richness of what you discover. Let me know!
