Malibu, CA

The Ocean

The best decision I ever made was to go to college in Hawaii. I was raised in the San Fernando Valley which is a desert and I don’t remember going to the beach very often as a child. Growing up, I always dreamed of being from some island in the Caribbean. Island life always seemed like the best type of life to me. I just knew life couldn’t possibly be that bad if the ocean was just minutes away. Whenever I was stressed out or feeling overwhelmed while living in Oahu, I would hop in my car, drive to the closest beach and jump in the ocean. I would swim out as far as I could, just float, look up and watch God. I’m sure there is some scientific explanation as to why the ocean makes us feel better, but for me the ocean is calming and humbling. Each time the shore breaks, I’m reminded that change is constant. If you have ever tried to stand in the water and hold your place, you know it’s impossible. Eventually the sand underneath your feet will wash away and the water will crash against your legs. No wave crashes the same as the last, you have to brace yourself all over again and prepare for the next one. The ocean is the best imitation of life. Our lives are constantly changing, and as you make it through one wave, another approaches. Whenever I feel everything is out of my control, I take a trip to the ocean. I am reminded that I can’t be in control of everything and that I’m going to get knocked down every once in a while. I am reminded that although one month might be high tide and full of large swells, the next might be as easy as floating in a lagoon. Nonetheless, at all times, stay ready.