Some weekends ago, my family released day-old turtles out to sea.
It’s interesting that in the first few moments when their bodies touch sand, these sea turtles seem paralyzed. Some even remain motionless longer than others.
Are they afraid of the vastness that lies ahead of them?
Or maybe they are taking it all in: the sight of the ocean, the scent of the beach, the texture of the granules beneath them.
Then suddenly, and with a burst of energy, they flail their arms and legs. It is a befitting reflection of the explosion of senses that happens inside them: they are fired up with the realization of their life’s purpose!
They fumble towards the water. Step by painstaking step, they inch their way home to the ocean.
Heaven’s help soon arrives. The waves approach to finally engulf them, and they are brought to a speed and distance that they have never experienced before.
And on goes their journey.
45 years hence, if they survive the harsh elements, they will return to where they were sent off: To find solace.To lay their eggs. To allow the cycle to continue.
Most likely, I will never again in my lifetime get to see any of the sea turtles I sent off that day. But I am truly joyful knowing that I was able to help – even but a few – start on their journey towards life.