“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch—we are going back from whence we came.” —John F. Kennedy.
turtle tracks
I arise early before dawn and watch the world come alive on the sea. The Gulf is smooth with almost no waves. Its appearance is more like a glassy lake than the roaring ocean. It is so calm, I can see schools of fish moving rhythmically near the shore. There are more dolphins than I have ever seen before. They are swimming to my right, to the left, in the water in front of the condo. The large mammals move like ballet dancers in slow motion, with poise and confidence. Schools of fish. Schools of dolphins.
I think of last year when my two granddaughters both started new schools the same day, one beginning college, the other starting high school. I wanted to send them love for their new adventures. I think most of us can still remember our first college class, our first day of high school. Could all of nature also be celebrating these new journeys with my granddaughters and all others starting new adventures this early morning? I will just take it as a possible sign that generates warmth in my heart to send on to them.
My husband goes down to the beach to talk to a gathering of turtle volunteers about the turtle nest in front of our condo. There are tracks from at least one of the clutch that wobbled down to the sea last night. More turtle people arrive and wait for what they call “the boil,” when the rest of the 120 turtles hatch. Today, perhaps 119 turtles will start a new journey, as did Langley and Zoe.
I am overwhelmed about our ability to feel and send connection to the world around us, to nature, and to those we so dearly love who are physically removed from us. I still feel this connection to my grandparents that began so many years ago.
Today all the world as far as I can see seems to be affirming love and connection and new beginnings.
Joanna . joannaseibert.com
Book Signing Wordsworth Books
Saturday, November 2, 2019 1 to 3 pm
Just in time for the holidays
A Spiritual Rx for Advent Christmas, and Epiphany
The Sequel to A Spiritual Rx for Lent and Easter
Both are $18. Money from sale of the books goes to Camp Mitchel Camp and Conference Center in Arkansas or Hurricane Relief in
The Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast