Now, let me start by letting you readers know that I'm from New Jersey, so if there was one place I grew up, it was at the shore. And yes, the correct term for 'the beach' is 'the shore'. Waffles and ice cream, $2 pizza slices that are bigger than your face, and Kohr's orange cream swirl custard. No matter where you grew up in Jersey, at least one of the dozens of famous beaches impacted your life (positively) in one way or another. Because, let's face it, it's almost impossible to be unhappy at the beach.
To me, the beach has always provided a sense of comfort. I'm not sure if that's because of the fact that your problems all seem so much smaller when you're standing on the sand, staring out into the horizon. Or maybe it's because you realize that life's problems come and go just like waves do. Maybe you see that no matter how immense the world is, there will always be someone there for you. Chances are, if you stand at the edge of the water and look directly ahead out into the sea, someone else on the other side of that ocean will be doing the same exact thing, looking back at you.
Maybe the beach gives you a sense of adventure-I know I feel that way. I think of all of the sailors that set ahead due north to find a new island. Or all the divers that swim incredible depths only to discover a new species of marine life that could affect future generations. I love to think about the fact that there is so much about the ocean that we barely know about. Today, we've explored only less than 5% of the ocean. Kind of terrifying, right? Considering the fact that water makes up almost 70% of our planet. I mean, we don't even have a solidified answer on the whole mermaid situation.
Maybe the beach teaches you how to really live-without a care in the world. Let all your problems go and watch your life change for the better. Live with your hair down and get your feet a little wet. Test the waters (literally). Once the sea teaches you these simple life lessons, you'll be so much happier and more at peace.
Which brings me to another thing the ocean gives me: a sense of peace. I can listen to the sound of waves crashing every day until the end of time and never get tired of it. It's so soothing to me and it is definitely something I miss when I'm away at school. It calms me and sometimes people think that's odd because waves can be rough and how can something as powerful but also boring as water be so beautiful?
To those who ask, I do not have an answer for you and I apologize for that but if you want an answer, I highly recommend getting your inquisitive self to the nearest beach and just sit there. Sit right there on the sand, right at the edge of the water and dip your toes in. It'll almost feel like you're on the edge of the world, but you'll feel so safe, I can almost guarantee you this. You're going to love it and you'll never want to leave. Breathe in the salty air, feel the sand between your toes and fingertips, and listen to the music the ocean has to offer you.
