It’s almost March First, as we all know. 

For many reasons March First has special significance. When I was much younger than I am now, I had a special jacket. It was a Kansas City Chiefs coat. That coat also had a March First significance. 

That year, 1973, my parents along with my Aunt Irene and Uncle Bob decided to get adjoining cabins for the opening of trout season at Roaring River. Because of this, I was able to get a prized fishing spot, along with my brother, David, and our cousins Joe, Burl, and Holly. 

Little did we know that our prized spot would land us on KY3 the next day. I will never forget the visual of my left arm casting out, while fishing near the bridge, while wearing my beloved Chiefs coat.

Because of this and so many other memories, March First has so much significance for me and so many others. What are some of the lessons I associate with the sight of March First on the calendar?

First, there is a sense of accomplishment that comes with this day. We have made it through the winter months of December, January, and February. Winter isn’t officially over but you can see the finish line to reaching spring just around the corner. 

It’s similar to when I ran track in high school. As you neared the end of the old two-mile relay, there was this incredible sense of relief, regardless of whether you had finished first or not. 

Next is the sense of renewal. The start of the spring season brings the sense of renewal that comes with seeing opportunities unfold in front of us. Whether it is the thought of planting grass in that bare spot in the yard, beautiful flowers or shrubs, putting up a bird feeder, planning the next fishing or float trip, the sight of spring brings all types of possibilities. This can open up our minds to see the joys and blessings in our lives.

Next is perseverance. A sense of confidence can come from the feeling of persevering through what we hope are the worst of the winter months. Even though this hasn’t been a bad winter, it’s still winter. And persevering and making it to the other side feels good. 

This is similar to what we can encounter quite often in our lives. There can certainly be winter moments. Making it out of these moments reminds us there can be brighter days to follow the wintertime of our lives.

Memories.

Memories are another part of March First. To me, this ties into the significance of Roaring River State Park. Since 1928, Roaring River State Park has entertained millions of people simply with its quiet beauty and grace. It is truly an extraordinary example of God’s majesty and beautiful artistry at work. 

March First and Roaring River are really special. There are lots of sporting seasons. There’s deer, turkey, squirrel, crow, coyote, goose, groundhog and frog seasons. And, you can fish for all kinds of fish: bass, crappie, catfish, just to name a few. 

But, the only one that will close down schools is the beautiful rainbow trout — on March First. 

For me and so many people in this area and throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas and beyond, the opening of trout season is an exciting time. 

Now, I have to give full disclosure, I’m not a big fisherman. I’m definitely not accomplished at reeling in the famed rainbow trout. But, I love Roaring River, the beauty of the park, the excitement of opening day, and seeing how much it means to long-time fishermen. 

It’s amazing how March First brings together family and friends and their traditions are truly priceless. 

I have served coffee to eager fishermen and women for over 35 years. I have seen the God-given beauty of the fog coming off the water, the joy of a little boy or girl catching their first fish, the reunion of life long friends and family members, and the pride resulting from hauling in a lunker trout. It’s fun, and lastly, it can be a celebration.

A celebration.

A celebration of all the things I’ve talked about, accomplishment, renewal, perseverance, memories and God’s majesty and beauty.

It’s truly a day to celebrate and appreciate that we have this God -given masterpiece in our backyard, which brings so much fun and joy to thousands each March First.

Here’s to Roaring River’s 98th season! And, here’s to another year that will once again bring together friends and family at one of the most beautiful places on earth, our own Roaring River. 

Happy March First.

Jon Horner is a local community bank president, published author, newspaper columnist, motivational speaker, and mayor of America’s Real Hometown. He can be reached at [email protected]