Cruising

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I set sail from reality. Amidst the hustle of the holiday season, I found myself on a luxury cruise liner steaming across the Caribbean Sea.  I fight luxury because deep down, I think it weakens us somehow. This feeling goes back to my younger days when I grew into an athlete. I would be a tennis player, dwelling amongst the lucky few that lived the country club lifestyle.  Despite its attractiveness, I felt out of place in the world despite my good fortune for being there.  Rowing would change things. When I discovered the gritty world around the boathouse, I would find comfort in the wet, salty residue that covered the long rows of boats. The sport pushed the envelope of comfort like nothing else. Through the dark, cold mornings, and the droplets of ice that often covering my racing shell, I knew I was at very heart of living, existing in the most simple of elements. I relished in the effort. For my 40th, my husband, knowing this all too well, planned a cruise with every intention of taking me out of my element. I balked at the very thought of it. But I had a challenger in the behemoth cruise ship that stood in front of me. It would take its best shot at my chosen lifestyle and attempt to reshape my view of the alternative.  From the first step on board, the ship would attempt to calm the restless waters in my head.   Every inch of the vessel targeted senses that are rarely fulfilled.  Luxury is everywhere. The gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea would hypnotize me. I would enjoy meal after meal that included all the food groups artfully arranged. I would sleep off weeks of exhaustion never realizing how tired I had become over time.  Fleece would be replaced by a shimmering dress and heels all to help me remember it’s OK to have a bit of vanity. The crew ‘s attention to every detail would inspire me knowing that I too wish to serve others with the same level of attention.   My camera would still be my good friend as I accepting the luxury all around.  It would try to keep things real and focused despite the boat’s siren-like enticements.  I would be lulled like a baby in the arms of the vessel and awaken at the first port.