New Territory

The warm ocean mist wraps around my body.

As I lean down to strap my leash around my ankle, I linger towards the sand.

My fingertips brush each and every single grain, anxious and nervous for what is going to happen next

As I grab my board, I turn towards the ocean and let it enclose me. 

We are one

I hug myself to my board and begin to push off towards the horizon line

I paddle out as fast as my body can let me

I meet the rest of my family behind a set of waves

After exchanging a few nods and smiles, my attention is quickly directed to an incoming wave

It's size overwhelms me but I instinctively turn my back on it.

Keeping a close watch on it's increasing power and speed, I begin to paddle toward the shoreline

We are one 

Suddenly, my entire world goes silent. I forget my family is behind me. I forget about teachers, homeowork, deadlines, and the fear of the unknown. 

The wave lifts me up and carries my board down its side. I jump up, ride the wave, and smile. 

I have found my peace.