As I swim out into the ocean with only the strength of my own arms to save me I consider for a moment where I am, who I am and what I am. A little too deep for most people probably but for me, it seems perfect. I’m an over thinker, of course. My strength and my ability is the only thing for people to judge me on here. Can I swim. How well. Will I drown. All that.
I am just a bobbing head with no body, no style and no opinion. Just me and the waves. Just me and how well I can stay above them. Just me and the might of the ocean as it pounds its way into the shore for the billionth time. There’s no bullshit here. Just jade coloured water, sand squashing in my toes and the hot sun on my face.
When people ask I tell them that’s why I love the ocean. It restores me when so many things aim only to take away. It requires nothing but a little consideration and some healthy lungs. You needn’t be wealthy nor wise to enjoy the ocean. Anyone is welcome. Bring your own beach towel and packet of chips.
I prefer salt and vinegar, but that’s your call.
An equaliser. A home of justice and peace. No race, religion, language, smarts, level of power will save you. I’m pretty sure Australia had a Prime Minister drown, yes? The ocean doesn’t discriminate. You try hard, you use your skills and you are generous with your neighbour. A perfect analogy for life, I think.
I turn and the sun hits me full on in the face. The gleam from my sunglasses, still perched on my face, sends small rainbows onto the surface of the water. I smile at those around me. We are in this together, out past the break, surviving on our wits. And as I duck under another wave, stroking powerfully to the surface, eye stinging, lungs stretched, I know. This is my place. I belong here.
And my dream to live by the ocean sets like cement in my heart.
Hi! I’m Melissa Walker Horn. Around here, they call me Suger. I’m the Chief Blogger and doer of all the things here at Suger Coat It. Blogging since 1901; I love a casual ootd, taking photos, and writing about things that irk or inspire me. I love wine and cheese, long days at the beach and spending time with my family. I make stuff for the internet over at Chalkboard Digital. You know, living the sweet life.
I do so love the ocean – these are beautiful words too. I need to go there more. Restorative powers.
Thank you Sarah. Oh me too. So very much me too! It revives me in a way that nowhere else can. Except maybe where I grew up.
Great pics of the beach. I am jealous.
It’s a beautiful spot.
WA has some beautiful beaches. I find it hard getting to the beach without a car though, and I burn so easily! I’m gonna make more time for relaxing and enjoying my country next year, once the hugely busy holiday period (work-wise) is over.
I’ve heard that about WA. I’ll be sure to come and check it out one day. Enjoy the time outside, add your sunscreen {early, before you leave}, layer up and wear a hat. And for goodness sake, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, avoid the middle.
This post made me very homesick for QLD beaches. I think I’d better hurry up and get back there x
Sounds great to me! See you soon. 😉
I felt myself burning just looking at those pics – beautiful.
Haha. You poor pasty thing. Kel has trouble in the sun too. We have perfected the fine art of sun smart’ness. 😉
We spent the afternoon at the beach yesterday, felt like a real holiday even if it was just a few hours!!!
It has that effect on me too! A day feels like a week and a week a month. Perection.
It’s why we moved to the Gold Coast and not Toowoomba, how I love the ocean and thank you for reminding me. The sad part about living down here is how much I miss places like Fraser and Rainbow beach!!!
I hear you on that! Toowoomba is beautiful, but the Gold Coast is made for beach babes. And don’t worry, I’ll keep Rainbow and Inskip warm for you until you get back. 😉