Life is But a Dream

Ocean Classroom has been the most difficult thing I have done. Between the late night watches, "soles and bowls" (bathroom and floor cleaning), and sailing through torrential downpours; it has not been on any measure, but I would not change a thing. While on this voyage to southern waters, I have had many moments where I find myself looking out, pondering about life and where I am presently. Theses moments, between sunrise to sunset, is all due to the hard work each member of the ship puts in.

I was told by a friend's father that the term "worth your salt" comes from the men at sea. In many cases, salt was such a high commodity, that men would get paid in salt what he his work was worth. I feel in many cases this correlates to my classmates and myself. We will only get out of the Ocean experience what we put into it; no more and no less. These great moments come with a hefty price; rough hands, sore muscles, and tank-top tans.

We are not even halfway through our voyage and have already gotten so much from this opportunity. Before I even set foot upon the Harvey Gamage, family and friends told me that the memories will last forever. I am just starting to fully understand what they were insinuating. I will never forget the things I do on Ocean Classroom because I may never have similar opportunities again. This experience makes me feel that "life is but a dream" thanks to the great people around me for this experience.

-J.P.