Nothing But Net

In a basketball game, the expression “nothing but net” refers to a perfect shot that escapes any of the rim and backboard. In the natural world, nothing but net might not seem as positive. When at the pond on the verge of catching a frog, nothing but net (or maybe even nothing but muck) doesn’t bring about the same joy nothing but net does on the basketball court. In a meadow or prairie, nothing but net when chasing a dragonfly or buitterfly may bring about some disappointment.

However, as a bystander watching others handle the net, I see joy in the pursuit, regardless of the outcome. Watch a child chase down a butterfly. Hear their giggles and see their smiles and try not to smile yourself. Watch a child sneak up slowly on a frog or toad. With every silent step, you know you are cheering them on and hoping they find success.

Watching children explore and engage with the natural world using tools and their imagination is pure bliss, even with an occasional “nothing but net.”