What might seem an idyllic little water feature in my backyard, was the scene this week for survival training. Goldfish were the trainees. Rocks, changing water levels, and the occasional hand all plunged into their world a couple of times. Yet these little marines (small “m”) survived. I cannot say the same for all but one minnow I still see.
I was attempting to set a little “waterfall” among the stones, and secure it. Not satisfied, when I attempted to adjust it later, it, a small stone, and the debris filter slid into the pond. Fish scattered. I retrieved everything and reset them more carefully. A couple hours later, the water was clearer, and the goldfish seemed fine. The following day, I was cleaning the filter material, but decided to adjust the waterfall for a better flow, and a big stone, a smaller stone, the plastic waterfall and filter slid, and everything went into the pond with a huge splash. A few choice words slipped out (I am a veteran after all). I got everything back in place and functioning again. Yesterday, hoped I would not see “floaters” as we were having family over. That afternoon our little grandchildren were able to confirm the three goldfish were still alive.
What does not kill you, makes you stronger. It is the same in our world as in a goldfish bowl.
It's a Dog's Life 