“Human Beings, indeed all sentient beings, have the right to pursue happiness and live in peace and freedom.”
~ Dalai Lama

I came to the computer this morning, prepared to write about freedom, when indeed, every photograph of the sun I took today, held the message of peace.  How perfect to have found a quote by the Dalai Lama that held both messages 🙂

So today, Spencer will head off island for nearly a month, beginning with a yacht delivery, from the VI up to Florida, followed by a couple weeks vacation. He’s crewing for an old friend, Harold, whom we’ve known since our earliest days here on island. Last night, Harold held a wonderful going away, send off party on the spectacular, 112 foot power yacht, catered with mounds of sushi and a well stocked bar.

The party brought together a core group of people, the ones we all refer to as our “old school” friends. The “pre-Marilyn” group, meaning we all moved here before September 1995, when Hurricane Marilyn wreaked havoc and devastation on the island. And while many statesiders returned home, each one of us at the party last night had the wear-with-all to stay.

Much like sports contributed to my character, so did Hurricane Marilyn. It taught me that all I really need for survival is myself. I was grateful simply to have a roof over my head. Hurricanes teach you that belongings don’t matter. It is your connection with people.

As I looked around at the core group of friends, I wondered what trait we all have in common.

And I think that trait or value is the love of freedom and adventure. Each of us came here in our youth, in the pursuit of happiness, to live in peace, and freedom. Times have changed, but our natures remain true, and I felt so at home and welcome in this group.

“Never make your home in a place. Make a home for yourself inside your own head. You’ll find what you need to furnish it – memories, friends you can trust, love of learning, and other such things. That way it will go with you wherever you journey.”

So thank you Harold, for being who you are. For bringing together ‘our family’. And here’s wishing you and Spencer, and the rest of the crew a safe and peaceful journey.

☮❤☺