There’s this odd phenomena happening.   From my limited observations, this could be a global issue.  All I know is that it has happened in my home town, surrounding towns, and even in Florida.

I think this happens when a bunch of people gather who have to much time, money, and misplaced good intentions.

I really don’t understand it, but a lot of people participate.

There’s even a website about it.

https://paintedrocklife.com/

Yes… painted rocks or, in Florida, painted rocks and sea shells.

Okay.
People gather, spend money on expensive acrylic paint, violate pieces of nature, and then waste gas hiding around the city.

—  Did I get that right?
I think I did.

Why?
I’ve been told it’s to ‘brighten someone’s day.’
—  Isn’t that just… sweet?

I bet these people think that they’re making a big impact on how someone’s day goes.   They’re helping the world making one smile at a time ™.

Really.
And, what’s even worse, is that children are involved.  These children could grow up to violate people’s days and pieces of nature for future generations.

Look, I understand that people want to give.   That’s great.  It really is.
However, it would be more impactful to help a cause that makes a bit more of a difference in the world.   I’m thinking UNICEF and Amnesty International.  If they want something closer to home, volunteer to help local soup kitchens, women shelters, or even be a greeter in a hospital.

Sure, they may not be as fun as painting a rock green, writing gold letters on it that no one can read, and hiding it where someone will just toss it in a lake.

When dash time is at an end, would someone rather be remembered for her or his love of farmer’s markets and making an impact on the world or heedlessly painting rocks?
Impact on the world… rocks…..   It’s not that hard of a decision.

I get it.  Everyone has a bad day.   Everyone could use a little cheering up, but that’s where self-preservation techniques come on.

Bad day?  Sing at the top of your lungs to a favorite song while the car windows are firmly up.   Eat ice cream.  Make a little whoopee with a significant other.  Go out and enjoy a local park that doesn’t have painted rocks.

What doesn’t happen…  ….  I’ve had a bad day.   I need to find a ‘comfort’ painted rock to ease my soul.

I like rocks.   I think they’re awesome.  I have a rock that’s shaped like a heart that someone gave me while I was in the House.  Mammoth Cave was one of my favorite places as a child.  I’ve informally studied gemstones and different types of rocks just for personal knowledge.

I do not support comfort rocks.

That’s all I’m saying.

Silly people.