I have walked up, over, and around the mountains of the world, have observed the meadows from above and played with butterflies on the plains.

Wandering the beaches, I have found amusement with the fishes in the surf, then took to the sea in ships with wings of cloth, crafted with the strength of the forest.

Upon that sea, my vessel is so small. My eyes reflect a world of blue. It is now myself that is under the scrutinizing curiosity of the creatures of its depths. My heart races as dolphins pace my vessel in play... whales surface and blow wet kisses across my bow. Their awesome size and display of strength does not bring fear but a passage of gentleness to be partaken by both. After all, we are sharing such a small parcel of the vastness of gemstone.

What kind of creatures inhabit this ocean's depths? What mysteries does it hold for those who venture by the wind to its places? The sea in itself, by its own command can be placid but never tamed. It, and the wind, can impose fearful respect for any who might attempt.

I choose to not combat the sea, but only to try to understand and cherish the awards of wisdom it may bestow upon me. Out here I am so small to be a part of this web of life, but deep within me I know that somewhere I do belong—I feel a special peace in knowing that.

My desire to learn, my thoughts to understand, and my willingness to participate push me forward with a purposeful but cautious enthusiasm.

I now have experienced and have borne witness to the most exquisite exhibitions of art on the earth, the first being the sunrise: Grayness of dawn allows you time to prepare for this extravaganza. Over a straight-lined horizon, my eyes dazzle as the first orange beams of light dance amongst the wavetops, announcing a new day is upon us—the sea is awake!

Like silver arrows, countless fish launch themselves into the air as if shot by as many archers hidden beneath the waves. The morning haze rises in columns, supporting a measureless stage of activity and beauty. Every day the stage is different, the cast is sometimes changed; but every single daily performance is unique, exquisite and never to again be repeated.

I have learned to cherish these moments of free mastery.

The wind has taken my intrepid craft countless days before the sea. I find myself not abandoned in this endeavor but at ease with inner tranquility.

Two of the earth's greatest powers have given me safe passage and have enabled me to roam freely in their midst.

On an early morn, bathed in the brightness of day, an isle of green brings itself into view. This land, most possibly not my own, offers intrigue that is worthy of my investigation. No perilous reefs warn me away from its mangrove coast. The depths of the ocean release me as I drift into the shallows of the bay. The forest has met the sea.

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