The idea of working at sea can be phenomenal. We’ve been at sea for about six days now. Every morning I take a cup of tea or coffee to the deck. The water is so blue as if someone place blue dye into the sea. Shift times have been between four to twelve hours total. It is completely civil. In between you eat gourmet meals, catch up on readings, movies, etc. The next day is pretty much the same. The only difference is a different connection with everyone on board.
My mind has been liberated from small conversations and immersed in this new quest, and new ideas. One of the best things about being at sea is the new people you get to meet and talk to. I met a member of the crew who dabbled in artificial intelligence before it became such a popular thing.We talked about the importance of trying to remain as human as possible. Basically, he believes humans are going too far in artificial intelligence. No offense, but I thought hearing that from a man with such an amazing resume that I rather not detail was extraordinary. How human does he know he is? Yet, he still questioned his own identity. Also, I cannot forget the most unforgettable political conversation I had with another crew member. I must say the conversation resonated well. I always walk away feeling awoken after these conversations at sea. There is so much to learn from everyone aboard the R/V Revelle.
-Tienna