Something Beautiful
One of the greatest things about having kids is getting the opportunity to watch someone experience things for the very first time. The first mud puddle, the first lady bug, the first bulldozer, or bird in the sky. Life is always an adventure through the eyes of little ones as every day contains wonders and new experiences. Their eyes light up like fire crackers as their tiny fingers point out with excitement the subject of their momentary glee. Their little voices squeaking with delight as they call out to you, "Mommy, Daddy, Look!!"
As we grow older and become acquainted with our world the wonder begins to fade as we get used to the glories this realm offers us. But every now and then we get to see it again. Today I was at the beach when a cluster of about 20 people from a group home came and set up camp beside us. Most of these people were between 30 and 50 years old and had varying mental capacities. We learned that some had suffered from strokes, others were born with diminished capabilities. We also learned that for most of them this was their very first trip to the ocean. When I heard this, I leaned forward in my beach chair to watch with anticipation while the group home workers would stand on either side of these fragile bodies as they approached one of the most powerful forces this world has to offer, the mighty sea.
As the waves would roar their presence, these wonderful people would shuffle through the sand, approaching the mammoth body of water with reverence and humility. The smiles on their faces communicated wonder, excitement, and anticipation. As the chilly water would reach their feet, slosh against their legs, and steal the sand between their toes, they would let out child like squeals and laughter. One man was actually knocked down by a wave and as the foamy water washed over his entire body, I expected to see a look of stark terror when he emerged, but instead there was only laughter and splashing.
In a place where beauty is measured by sun tans and swimsuits, today the standard was subtly eclipsed by a humble group of grown up kids experiencing something for the very first time. It was something beautiful.
As we grow older and become acquainted with our world the wonder begins to fade as we get used to the glories this realm offers us. But every now and then we get to see it again. Today I was at the beach when a cluster of about 20 people from a group home came and set up camp beside us. Most of these people were between 30 and 50 years old and had varying mental capacities. We learned that some had suffered from strokes, others were born with diminished capabilities. We also learned that for most of them this was their very first trip to the ocean. When I heard this, I leaned forward in my beach chair to watch with anticipation while the group home workers would stand on either side of these fragile bodies as they approached one of the most powerful forces this world has to offer, the mighty sea.
As the waves would roar their presence, these wonderful people would shuffle through the sand, approaching the mammoth body of water with reverence and humility. The smiles on their faces communicated wonder, excitement, and anticipation. As the chilly water would reach their feet, slosh against their legs, and steal the sand between their toes, they would let out child like squeals and laughter. One man was actually knocked down by a wave and as the foamy water washed over his entire body, I expected to see a look of stark terror when he emerged, but instead there was only laughter and splashing.
In a place where beauty is measured by sun tans and swimsuits, today the standard was subtly eclipsed by a humble group of grown up kids experiencing something for the very first time. It was something beautiful.
The ocean brings happiness to so many. It has a mind of its own.....it has my heart. Not many people get the chance to really know the "language" of the ocean.
ReplyDeleteI was lucky to have the ocean as my backyard. (For 18 years).......there is nothing better than riding that perfect wave. :)
Beautifully written, Will.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Will you write very well. I am glad that you are a published writer. I also enjoy watching these special kind of people enjoying their world. I watched a group at Chase the other day. It sure does make you take a step back and look at things differently.
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