My computer clock tells me that it’s 2.09 am on 31 December and yet my wristwatch says 15.09 on 29 December. Such is the joy of being in two places at the one time. I really wanted to go for a swim today – after mass – so we went down to Pebble Beach, also known as IliIli (lots of small pebbles) in Captain Cook, Honaunau. We had the place practically to ourselves but any thoughts of taking a dip were put to rest as the waves surged and roared their way to shore.
The view was spectacular and as the currents ripped and tore the pebbles, the world came into perspective. Such was the strength of the ocean that no one stood a chance. That lone man – a hefty 6 foot +, weighing at least 250lbs – went flat on his ass and sat, stunned, as the water washed over him. Those who turn their back on the ocean do so at their peril.
Walls of water showed little mercy for anything caught in their way. We perched far enough way to enjoy the spectacle, out of reach of the spray, but still, by times, a couple of waves came close enough to make us scramble. It was mesmerising. Who needs special effects or TV when you have this in your front yard. The locals are a tad upset that this beach features in the guide books – it’s not a swimming beach – not in winter, and every year people get caught out. Not necessarily swimmers, but those on shore who turn their back on the water and fail to see what’s heading their way. And the only sign posted is one that says nudity is prohibited.
The beach is littered with black pebbles, all of which are gone by February, swept out into the ocean along with the sand from the other beaches on the island. Where do they go? And how do they find their way back? And where did this lone white pebble come from?Given a few more hours, I’m sure that the answer to the meaning of life would have come to me …. but we were expecting visitors and the cocktails were a calling.
I can’t think of a better way to end the year that to sit underneath a palm tree on the edge of the ocean and watch Mother Nature do her thing. And yet again, for the fifty-millionth time, I promise myself that the next place I live will be within hearing distance of the sea. It has wonderful way of putting things into perspective and making me realise that there’s little point in worrying about stuff I can’t change. Far better to appreciate what I have and give thanks for that.
7 responses
Very thought-provoking post. Is it just me, and my own year-end review, or is there a contrast between the visual and verbal blogs? Your words are almost calming, but the photos are quite tumultuous. Yes, the palm trees and pebbles are tranquil, but the optical contradiction accentuates the hardness of the rocks, and the aloofness of the beach, as much as the peace. The tumult may be mine, but I wonder what you think?
I hadn’t thought about that as I wrote but now that you mention it, it makes sense…
It’s about time you got life into focus. Worry about the things that you can change, for that is where you can make an impression. For good or bad, that’s your choice, or the result of your decisions. Disregard what you cannot change, for to worry about what you have no control over is an exercise in futility. Finally always keep one eye open for that rogue wave that can knock you off your feet – like the ocean life can surprise you with some nasty shit and leave you ‘flat on your ass’
Happy New Year
Who are you? What have you done to my bro? Some good advice there. Ta
For me, having lived by the sea for much of my life, those pictures of crashing waves *are* peace and calmness. No tumult whatsoever!
It’s a beautiful sound to fall asleep to.
It’s a beautiful sound to fall asleep to