“On River Time began a short eight years ago with a mission to serve children who are survivors of abuse and neglect. Using fly fishing as a means of connecting with each child, we introduce people, place and partners into their life journey to instill value and hope.
As a survivor of abuse, I am familiar with the hidden feelings of shame, guilt and fear and how those three shaped my life as a child, and then as an adult. Understanding “it was not your fault” does not come easily nor all at once. It’s a process of forgiveness and self reflection that can only happen in silence.
It is with these sounds of silence-the creak of the oar against the drift boat, the riffle flowing over the gravel bank, the screeching of the eagle above, and the lift of a trout to a fly- I found my own forgiveness and my own moment.
Our campers are young people who have endured horrific actions, usually perpetuated by those they trusted the most . . .their families. In that course, their dreams are dampened and swallowed with a deep fear of ever trusting again.
Our past can only define our future if we allow it to do so. Life changing experiences occur everyday, and it is through these moments and experiences that we learn the true meaning of the words, ‘it was not your fault’.”
- Steve Davis, On River Time Founder
Steve Davis began On River Time in 2012. He’s the senior vice president and director of Construction Risk Services for Mc Griff, Seibels & Williams, Inc. He’s a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and the author of the book, “Picking Butter Beans”.
