It seems another reef sojourn is on the cards. I leave on Saturday, but this time it feels more like fulfilling an obligation than following a desire.
When I think about what awaits me, like swimming through a shark-infested ship-wreck or live turtle birth, it seems like a truly amazing experience. And it is.
I think perspective is everything, and we view the events in our life relative to whatever else is going on. I have so much to look forward at the moment that the reef trip seems to pale in comparison.
In reality, I’m incredibly lucky. Not everyone gets to see what I see, or do what I do. Bringing photos and stories home can never really communicate what these research trips are. I don’t know what it is, but being a researcher on this tiny, insignificant fleck of coral makes you feel connected. I’ve spoken to other researchers about it, and they agree. The holidaymakers are right there across the track, but they may as well be on another planet, so different our experiences are.
So when I think of it in these terms, I am excited to go back. It really is somewhere only we know.
Keane
Swim carefully. I look forward to hearing about it. My daughter did a marine biology internship, and it intensified her appreciation of all that life holds (and I got to see all her photos and hear her stories!)
Heh, to swim carefully is to swim somewhere else.
I will bring the photos and the stories!
Just to let you know, Adrian, I am still awaiting a photo of your medical interview attire (do you remember this conversation?). Don’t think I will forget until you’ve posted it!
haha, keep waiting mate. Photographs of me are not my favourite thing in the world.
One other thing to look forward to on your return from the reef – A new housemate…
Of course futuredoc – one I’ve never met in person, too. I’m looking forward to it
oooh, I love the song ’somewhere only we know’!, mmmm Keane. Sorry, random comment, procrastination has its price.
I know, it’s one of those songs that never gets old. One of my favourites, though not a massive fan of Keane in general.