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Ocean Gazing

Ocean Gazing

Before hubby and I left on our recent get-away to the gulf, a friend of mine said, “Nancy, be sure to do lots of ocean gazing.”

Sounds like stating the obvious doesn’t it?

But sometimes we need to state the obvious. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves to do the obvious. And that’s what I did, the obvious.

I did lots of ocean gazing while away.

I didn’t even mind that the weather was far less than perfect. In fact, the cool temps, heavy clouds, on and off rain and frequent fog seemed to fit my mood. Not that we didn’t see any sun and not that I spent my whole vacation feeling glum, but I must admit my mind was in a strange place all week for many reasons.

There’s nothing quite like nature, and more specifically there’s nothing quite like the ocean, even when it’s a bit tumultuous, maybe even more so when it is, to remind me of the obvious and to put things into perspective.

For starters…

With one glance at it, the ocean instantly reminds me of its grandeur and vastness.  I, in turn, feel humbled and small, but yet despite this comparison, or maybe because of it, I’m comforted by this obvious fact for some reason.

The ocean encourages and reminds me somehow to slow down, to look deeper, to not look deeper, to appreciate, to breathe, to marvel, to accept, to not accept, to let some things go, to hold onto what matters, to live in the moment, to escape the moment, to continue to grieve for my mom and also for my friend Rachel.

At the same time, the ocean encourages me to heal and just be…

Ocean gazing “washes” the clutter from my mind, making room for clearer thoughts.

The ocean teaches by perfect example that calmness and serenity will return if only I am patient and allow for this to happen. No matter how rough the seas become, calmness and serenity always return to the magnificently vast ocean.

Why would it be any different for little old me?

The ocean mysteriously “nudges,” almost “requiring me” to reflect and remember the past while also encouraging me to contemplate and plan for the future.

On some days ocean waves crash thunderously to shore displaying astonishing power as if demanding respect, and on other days they remain gentle and nearly non-existent, reminding me that life, too, sometimes crashes around me and at other times is peaceful and calm.

Sometimes these things are not meant to be changed by me.

The ocean has a way of putting things into perspective.

Yes, the ocean has a way of stating the obvious, and so much more.

How does nature teach, inspire or comfort you?

What part of nature do you seek refuge in?

 

 

 

Elizabeth

Wednesday 25th of March 2015

Nancy, I prefer to see the mountains and the sea! I am very spoiled.

Nancy

Wednesday 25th of March 2015

Elizabeth, Maybe you are just a little bit spoiled! But if you had to choose...thanks for sharing.

Betty

Friday 16th of March 2012

I love the Ocean too. Love the Mts driving home from church on Sundays I see a lovely panorama of the Rockies. I love sitting in my back yard too. Nature is beautiful in its many varying forms, a wonderful comfort.

Nancy

Friday 16th of March 2012

Betty, Yes, nature is restorative and comforting for sure. I can never decide which I like better, the ocean or the mountains. It's not like I must choose though is it? Thanks for sharing. You're lucky to see those Rockies every day. Enjoy the views!

Idelle Davidson

Thursday 15th of March 2012

Nature really DOES help us heal. So glad to know about you and your wonderful blog.

Idelle Davidson www.YourBrainAfterChemo.blogspot.com

Nancy

Thursday 15th of March 2012

Idelle, Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting. I appreciate it.

Beth L. Gainer

Sunday 4th of March 2012

Hi Nancy,

I'm so glad you enjoyed ocean gazing. I agree that oceans can be so humbling and an unbelievable experience. I find solace in nature; for me, it was a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains that always makes its way back into my memory.

Beautifully written posting!

Nancy

Tuesday 6th of March 2012

Beth, The Great Smoky Mountains are pretty wonderful too. I'm not sure which I would pick if forced to choose between the ocean and mountains. They are both pretty spectacular in their beauty and healing power. Nature has a way of putting things into perspective that's for sure. Thanks so much for sharing about a place you find solace in.

BreastCancerSisterhood.com

Sunday 4th of March 2012

Nancy, I love your post! Nature's always held a huge pull for me. You're right about it being calming, and yet, it can stir up a host of old feelings that need processing. I used to walk several times a week on our ranch, but haven't done that since James died.

Last week I climbed into James' truck and drove some "hombres" around the ranch who're cutting cedar and cactus for me. James kept everything cut back, and I want to put things back the way they were before he died. I tell myself that perhaps I'll resume my walks when my paths are clear again, but I'm not sure I'm ready... I hope one day to find peace on the path where he died.

XOXOXO, Brenda

Nancy

Tuesday 6th of March 2012

Brenda, Thank you for your poignant comment. I hope you find that peace you're looking for too.