Saturday, January 21, 2012

A Fresh Pair of Eyes

I have lived in the tropics for about 4 years now. When I first arrived, I marvelled regularly at my luck to live in a place so beautiful. I was up with the sunrise, having my cup of tea sitting on the seawall so I would watch the morning light burst open against the waves.

Sunrise over Dangriga, Belize

 On full moon nights, I watched the fat moon light up the beach, sometimes walking a while on the exposed reef.
Full Moon over Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, Mexico

But as time passed the ocean became a background to the everyday noices of work and the day-to-day. So last night when a woman said "We're in for a beautiful sunset today", I felt myself cringing. It felt strange that someone would a) notice and b)point it out. As if there weren't more urgent things to think about.
Sunset over Salina Grande,  Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Then I caught myself, remember that I used to be that woman, and it didn't take any more of my time or energy to pay attention.

Light on Sokez Ridge, Pohnpei, Micronesia

Sometimes you need a fresh pair of eyes to show you what been in front of you all along.

Sunset at the Shoreline, Majuro, Marshall Islands

This morning I had my tea by the see, watched the crabs scurry from one hole to another, walked the reef out to a shallow pool, and let the ocean wet my feet.

Palua Kappas, Malaysia

No comments:

Post a Comment