Catch and release: painted rocks spread joy

There is a new game that has people walking around, but rather than using “enhanced reality,” this game enhances reality.

In several states people have been finding rocks painted with hearts or other lovely images and sentiments. On the back of each rock is a note that says: “Find us on Facebook. Northeast Ohio Rocks! Post your picture and RE-HIDE ME! Join us! And have fun.” The reception has been tremendous:

“We now have 36,000 members. That I am aware of, we are the largest ‘Rocks’ group of this kind in the United States. Vancouver Rocks in Washington State has 29,000 members. And Lakeland Rocks in Florida has 26,000 members.” Some people hear about the craze and look at her like she has rocks in her head. But there’s something about the quirkiness of a painted rock that makes people smile, she said. And there’s something about painting that relaxes. Some people like to knit. Some paint rocks. Members often give testimonials on the Facebook page. One wrote recently: “This group, along with the act of painting and hiding rocks, is the first joy I’ve felt in months. My three-year-old son passed away in May. He loved rocks. This is a continued connection to him. I get peace from painting. I get joy from hiding. And even more joy seeing how happy people are finding them.”

Now that’s a fun game for all ages and excellent practice for the upcoming Easter egg hunts!