FISHING FURY

I heard late last night that an old friend of ours had passed away. It has been a long time since anyone who really meant something to my life has died. I hadn’t planned to write anything about him, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized just how much he influenced my life. I have built several meaningful friendships thanks to Shannon, including meeting Jonathon. It was more than 10 years ago that I met Jon, and it was in Shannon’s back yard if my memory serves me correctly. Those of you who have followed this site for a while may remember the original FishingFury logo – a logo Shannon designed for us despite having no interest in fishing.

Without Shannon I never would have met the woman who later gave birth to our incredible son. And for that, I will always remember him.

These were the last words posted on his website Zentastic.com

Thank you to everyone who made my life wonderful. I love you all. I wish there had been more of it, and I wish I had more to give. I’m sorry there is so much unfinished, so much left to do, but I am glad to know many wonderful people who will complete it. Last minute reflections and bits of advice… seize every opportunity that’s in front of you and live life to the fullest. Even with everything I’ve done, there is so much more I wish I’d squeezed in. Don’t let a single day (well, maybe a single day) be idle. Have every adventure you can, and explore every street — although treat the one-way streets with caution. Don’t fritter you life away into television, random browsing, and pointless substance abuse (I have at times been guilty of all of these) — although remember there are valid uses for them, both for growth and entertainment. Have passion about the future, and in the present. Especially if you’re young, push your education and your skills to their limits on every level. Don’t just graduate highschool, get a degree, get a doctorate if you can. I know these things aren’t for everyone, they are for most, and they also open doors to some of the most special adventures. Even if you can’t afford proper schooling there are many, many ways to learn, free courses to volunteering, and so on. Value your health, and the health of our planet, and strive beyond its borders. We have such a glorious future, but never forget that your part in that future could end at any moment, so live a life that you can be proud of. And of course love and treat each other well.

As much as these last years have been the most difficult I can imagine, and there are still many deeds to be done, please know that I have had a wonderful adventure and enjoyed it immensely on the whole.

Live Long and Prosper!

Love always,

Shannon Larratt