The Sea
Kia ora!
Recently my wife and I went to Tauranga as part of a weekend away in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty visiting family and friends. We visited Main Beach at Mount Manganui. The weather was warm with a slightly chilly breeze, but this wasn’t enough to deter swimmers, sunbathers, and walkers. There’s something about the sea that compels us to be near it. Even seeing the ocean from a distance draws our interest, and often excitement; is there a road nearby that will take us down to the shore? In Napier, the beach at Marine Parade is not for swimming, but the sights and sounds of the waves as they crash against the coastal shelf that drops down so quickly and precariously are irresistible.
And when we’re at the shore and looking at the waves coming in, we may feel a deep sense of connectedness. Perhaps it’s a feeling of comfort and solace. We may relax and feel tranquil, calm, serene.
That humans have a special relationship with the sea is undeniable. Obviously the sea sustains us. It keeps us alive by generating 70% of the world’s oxygen. It determines the weather. It is the cradle of life. When scientists seek life on other planets, the presence of water is the first thing they look for.
Great works of literature are based on the sea. The Odyssey charts the ten-year voyage of Odysseus back to his home island of Ithaca. Moby-Dick has Captain Ahab pursuing the giant white whale. Moses parts the Red Sea in the Old Testament, and much of the action in the Gospels is set on or near the Sea of Galilee.
And what is it about fish and chips on the beach? Isn’t it wonderful? It’s such a simple thing but it gives so much pleasure. It’s hard not to toss the occasional chip to the seagulls (just don’t give them too many).
Then the sun goes down. Surely the sight of a sunset over the ocean’s horizon is impossible to beat. The fiery red, glorious gold, perfect peach. You can count all the colours or just behold them. I also love the way the colours keep changing. We all take photos but you really have to witness the spectacle with your own eyes.
Summer is almost here. I hope you’re excited. Thinking about getting to the sea? Many of you will go the beach. But don’t forget that the sea is still there in the winter; just wear something warm.
God bless you all
Steve.