Beware of falling eels…

C.E. Grundler

I had to laugh when I read John’s post yesterday regarding the mystery fish aboard his boat, its origin and meaning. I can understand only too well his confusion, as something similar once happened to me, and it might shed some light on how the fish found its way on deck. As to the meaning behind this odd event, I’m pondering that one as well.

It happened a few summers ago, but I remember it as though it was only yesterday. I’d gone down to the boat to do my usual check-overs, run the engine a bit, and stir up some mud. Part of the routine was after running under load for ten minutes, then I’d drop back to neutral and let her idle for five before shutting down. While she’s idling, I’d do a walk around, checking everything from waterline to bridge. So I’m up on the bridge, and pause for a minute to admire the view of the river. Three gulls swoop overhead, screaming at one another, and THHUDDDSPLATTTT!!!! (Emphasis on the SPLAT!) There’s a big, fat, very dead eel laying across the bridge deck two feet away from me. Based on the slime imprint, it landed a few feet further away, and BOUNCED to its final resting place. Well, not entirely final. I still had a paper towel in hand from checking the oil, so I picked up the deceased eel and tossed it into the river. I might have been more grossed out if I wasn’t laughing so hard.

So… was this some sort of sign? I’m still trying to figure how to read into it. Interpretations, anyone?

Share on Facebook