Gifts of the Ocean

The ocean has immense power that goes beyond what we as people can comprehend. From a young age, it has calmed me and shaped me into the person that I have become. The water has given me many gifts and taught me many lessons that I will cherish forever, but here are the four most important to me.

Wonder

My first real memories were of falling in love with the ocean. As a young student, I was lucky enough to spend time on sailboats, take marine biology classes, and be encouraged to snorkel and scuba dive. All of these experiences made me begin to ask questions. How does a sailboat sail into the wind? What is plankton? How do some creatures perform bioluminescence? What mysteries of the ocean are yet to be discovered? These experiences were the start of my scientific curiosity.

Confidence

As I continue to grow into the person I am today, I give a lot of credit for my self-confidence to the times I have spent on the ocean. I faced my fears with different dives including cave and shark diving. I studied oceanography and furthered my education. I accomplished physical tasks like surfing, open ocean sailing and kayaking. With each activity I accomplished and challenges I faced, my confidence grew.

Humbleness

While the ocean has given me confidence, it has also humbled me. I have been tossed from a surfboard and pounded by the waves. I have been sailing in beautiful weather when a storm appeared out of nowhere and almost swept me away. I have sheltered below decks while in awe of the massive power that the ocean possesses. It reminds me that while working on or with the ocean, just as in life, our power pales in comparison to nature. That as strong as we may be, we must respect its power.

Peace

Today, as I live in a world that seems to be spiraling out of control, the ocean is where I know I can go to find peace. It is consistent and dependable; I know the tides will go in and out no matter what else happens. I know it will be there to welcome me into its waters. I know when I sit in a kayak, lay on a surfboard or stand in the shallows that my mind will be free to wonder about its mysteries. I can take a breath and look with awe at its beauty. The ocean centers me and keeps me grounded, so I will be ready for what lies ahead.

Ryan moved to Washington state in 2008 to attend the University of Washington, where he received his degree in oceanography and marine biology. He has worked in research labs, outdoor education, bartending, and as a soccer coach at South Whidbey High School. He is currently in his second year working at Whidbey Island Kayaking.