Visiting the ocean always leaves me with a sense of profoundness, reminding me I am but a small fraction of the entire world. The Herculean surfs of Laupahoehoe remind me of nature’s unforgiving temper, the waves crashing against tall rock formations and spraying up. However, when standing at the shores of Pismo Beach, searching for shells and clams, I can’t help but wonder about the entire ecosystem of animals living just beneath the surface. Dotting the shore, multicolored shells and kelp lay sunbathing, but the vibrant hues never contradict each other. Just beneath the beguiling surface, creatures of immense size reside in the ocean’s depths. Exploring aquariums has gifted me with a view of these aquatic animals, whale sharks and stingrays swimming behind tall panes of glass. The water’s reflection shades the room a deep blue, a color I believe is perfect for the feeling of gratitude and wonder of the ocean.
Laupahoehoe, Hawaii
Pismo Beach, California