As a native of San Diego [and I mean real San Diego, not east or north county], I have swam in the Pacific Ocean my whole life. I love San Diego's beaches more than any other California beaches because ours are always diverse with so many different things to do--surf, boogie-board, skim board, snorkel, SCUBA, cliff-jumping, distance-swimming, spearfishing, and so many other water sports and fun. The ocean--not just the beach--is where I love to be. My father taught me to love the sea and the power of the water. He showed me how to swim through the biggest of waves and observe the small and amazing ocean life, little of which is left. When I dive my head under the blue, I can feel the life-force of the ocean's current wash over me. When I surface, I breath in the smell of the cold, saltwater that blows into my nose from an offshore breeze. Just being close to it makes me feel better, complete.
The Pacific Ocean greatly affects American culture even today. The fun and freedom provided by beach activities is a popular ideal--a lot of people want to get tanned, learn how to surf, watch babes, etc. But the aspect that appeals to me is the peace I feel when I do anything at all in the ocean. I feel whole again and the all my problems, fears, concerns make sense. The ocean holds appeal for Americans of every kind--thrill seekers, tanners, socialites, swimmers--and, thus, Americans pioneered beach culture, which started on the shores of the Pacific.
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The Pacific Ocean greatly affects American culture even today. The fun and freedom provided by beach activities is a popular ideal--a lot of people want to get tanned, learn how to surf, watch babes, etc. But the aspect that appeals to me is the peace I feel when I do anything at all in the ocean. I feel whole again and the all my problems, fears, concerns make sense. The ocean holds appeal for Americans of every kind--thrill seekers, tanners, socialites, swimmers--and, thus, Americans pioneered beach culture, which started on the shores of the Pacific.
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I have often think about what my more material goal in life is. Spiritually, I want to love the Lord my God with all my heart, all my soul, and all my mind. And love others as Christ loves me. Materially (job-, money-, house-wise, etc.), I have determined that I want to make a career as a School Psychologist. But often I wonder how amazing life could be if I was just a beach bum of sorts: living on the sand, swimming all day, and sleeping as a trade wind blows above me. I would be able to enjoy my favorite part of God's creation each day. [And to whoever is reading this: I am proud to be a Christian who can grow and prosper in a high school like this--although I wouldn't mind if I had to leave it all for a place of wind and sea.] Somewhere, where there's a wave with my name on it.
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