Going East To Be at Home

As I reflect I realize what it is I so love about the ocean. New Hampshire summers can be claustrophobic for me—rocks, weeds in my garden, and green leaves everywhere. When I get to the ocean, everything becomes simple, more manageable. It doesn’t matter if crumbs drop, if I wear the same t-shirt three days in a row. There is space to move—move my body, move my soul. 

I came to understand several years ago what is at the root of this expansive nature that comes with being at the seaside. The landscape itself is there in its simplicity; there is no overarching green canopy to distract me. The elements—earth, water, air, fire—are there in their essence—sand, sea, wind, sunshine. In addition the four elements can be seen in relation to one another: the gentle haze as the wind blows the dry sand across the beach, the beautiful patterns on the sand left by the waves as they roll in, the sun sending slivers of gold across the surface of the water, the wind blowing the seafoam and ocean spray.

Just a few days ago I hiked to the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic where waves crashed on the rocks far below. As I gazed east over the vast ocean, I saw something challenging to find here in hilly New Hampshire—the stark clarity of the unbroken horizon line—a straight boundary dividing sea and sky, heaven and earth. There was nothing made by humans in my outward view, only what had been given by the Creator. Then came the comfort of the song of the ceaseless tide! I could leave the world with its disturbing events behind and rest for a few moments in peace and gratitude.

As you plan your summer, I encourage you to make time to be at the ocean. Whether for day visits or an extended stay, you can find healing and nourishment for you and your children. You can feel rested and restored. Hopefully you will have another adult with you to watch the children so you can have some solitary time to walk or sit on a rock and watch the tides. The ocean provides a place for contemplation. You may find inspiration, new thoughts about your life, or new projects you would like to undertake. This summer, make some space for the ocean to move your soul!

As for the children they will be joyful, happy as they become one with the elements. When they have a bucket, shovel, and the bounty of the ocean’s gifts, your challenges will also be simple—how to get them out of the water, how to get them to come to the blanket for lunch, and how to get them to stand still so you can apply sunscreen.

Now is a time to slow down and drink in all that nature has to offer us. So whenever it is possible, take your children and go home to the ocean this summer!