In Depth’s Absence, Impressions Still Endear
As a novice kayaker, I assumed the best technique was to plunge my oar deeply, keeping it submerged as long as possible to maximize forward mobility. This strategy worked in short bursts but quickly drained my spindly limbs.
Fortunately, in preparation for an eight-hour jaunt around Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, our instructor taught us the swift and shallow approach. Loosely gripping our paddles with elbows extended as if a beach ball rested in our laps, we were to catch, propel, and release the water. Relying on core and leg muscles, I completed the trek without requiring rescue — which made me wonder whether poor form hindered other facets of my life?
Now, I’d been called “a bit intense” on more than a few occasions, so the concept of surfacy interactions seemed akin to dreaming in a foreign language. Yet, my “what’s-the-quinessential-meaning-of-life” tendencies prickled carefully guarded comfort zones. I started appreciating the ease with which others established speedy rapport and noticed how, even brief snippets of connectivity, still resonated.
These days, just as I study the tide and current tables before launching my kayak on the San Francisco Bay, I’m keenly cognizant of those who seek a buffer from overly animated, philosophical sorts like me. And, although the temptation to thrust my paddle well beneath the surface beckons, I gingerly reel myself back several notches — knowing:Â In depth’s absence, impressions still endear.
LUGGAGE Lady 
Fun. I’ve always been a skimmer and often miss the depth, but love your playful way to look at skimming. To lasting impressions, regardless of the paddling style!
Thanks for being one of those unique personalities that I treasure so!! 🙂
Thanks for sharing such a thought-provoking post. I also love kayaking and find it so peaceful to be out on the water.
I look forward to reading more of your posts.
Best,
Nancy L.
PS I love the name of your blog 🙂
Thanks for taking your valuable time to visit — your kindness is much appreciated! Gliding across the water brings such mind-clearing serenity, I struggle to find adequate words…Glad to hear you enjoy the same magic!
Very interesting thoughts here. Not superficial either ;). Beautiful post, Shauna.
Aww, thanks for always coming along on my little escapades. Hoping everyone is back in ship-shape form at your end! 🙂
Beautiful and insightful post. I never learned kayaking but like to row 🙂 being on the water is wonderfully calming. I was “deep or nothing” when I was younger, then life taught me that a more superficial snippets of conversation can actually lead (every now and then) to a deeper and more meaningful exchange later on…
Have a wonderful weekend!
Versatility is definitely a beautiful trait. 🙂 Although I think I’ll always gravitate toward those bursting with energized insight and actively scrambling after their dreams, I agree that some of the most rewarding relationships do take root in superficial beginnings. Thanks for sharing your kind perspective. Happy rowing (I need to try that some day)!
“I assumed the best technique was to plunge my oar deeply, keeping it submerged as long as possible to maximize forward mobility. This strategy worked in short bursts but quickly drained my spindly limbs.”
This is a great metaphor for a way of approaching life or situations in life that isn’t always the most effective. It resonated for me on several levels. Thank you!
Ha! Been there, done that aplenty!! 😉 Seems I took longer than most to master the art of trusting my gut. I still get knocked to my knees on occasion — but, fortunately, the genuine cherished souls back in my little world always provide a soft landing. Thank YOU for dropping by and warming my heart!
Hallo,
This is for you, for being kind to others and me : )
Pick it up here if you want to http://summer4soul.wordpress.com/2013/02/14/valentines-day-this-is-for-you-because-you-are-love/
Sweet greetings, Summer
Dearest Summer, I am so very grateful that I found YOU. What a beautiful, soul-stirring spirit…I wish you sweet love on Valentine’s Day and always! xo
This is the one : ) http://www.bigcards.nl/card/pickup/bc-c7cf3c10/
Another finely crafted, powerful post. Love the metaphor and the message. As a dancer and choreographer, I’m finally, belatedly, beginning to understand the value of ease, which actually requires effort, in dancing, after merely 4 decades :). But this late discovery has opened up a whole new world of rich movement and performance for me. As you wisely observe, versatility and flexibility in our approach are key. Sometimes deep, sometimes less so. See you on the water. Xo
Thanks for your kind words and intriguing perspective. Since my level of coordination is limited at best, 😉 I can only imagine the disciplined finesse required in the beautiful art of dance…But these skills (albeit in a less refined manner) surely make everyday life more enjoyable! xoxo
What a cool adventure. Great post!
Thanks for dropping by with your kindness!! 🙂
Hi luggagelady. You’re so brave I couldn’t get in a boat that small! Thank you for your comment and liking my poem ‘The Flight Attendant!’ we just don’t know what’s out there in this world. Best Wishes, The Foureyed Poet.