Submersion

Over the past three months I have been immersing myself in a field of study that I have always had an interest in. From a young age, I have always found the marine environment fascinating, but never had an opportunity to really explore and see if it was a path I would want to pursue for a potential career. When this opportunity presented itself to me, I took advantage of it to embark on an adventure that would provide clarity in what direction I would like my future to go.

As you all know, I literally have submerged myself in the marine environment for extended periods of time exploring the depths of the ocean. I have learned so much about the marine environment during my time in Bonaire but there is still so much more to learn. There are so many mysteries in the depths of the ocean that it is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.

Diving has allowed me the chance to explore the underwater world were these mysteries lie to begin understanding the complexity and importance of these ecosystems. I can see myself continuing down this path because there is so much more to learn. Besides the learning, I feel at peace in or near the water.

Descending below the water’s surface, I enter an atmosphere of serenity that comforts me allowing me to clear my head of all the things that do not matter. All the worry, stress, and uncertainty are washed away. The tranquility of feeling weightless in the water surrounded by the quietness comforts me. I am alone with my own thoughts and emotions without the distractions of the world to think more clearly. Time passes in a different way when beneath the surface. It can feel like only twenty minutes have passed when it in fact an hour has already passed. I am in my own world but close to others sharing in the experience and provide support if needed.

All the people that have come into my life through this journey have made a lasting impact on me and helped provide the clarity I was looking for. Lifelong friendships were made and I am going to miss everyone that I have spent the last three months with exploring the underwater world and life abroad in a different culture. Here are to all the memories created during this adventure in the Caribbean. I am going to miss the island life but I am excited for future journeys.