by Today marks our seventh day at sea, and although our transit is not over, we’ve already learned more than I could have ever imagined. Yesterday morning, I found myself staring at our makeshift projector screen in awe as Steve, one of our mentors, gives a detailed lecture about the eighth continent of the world: Zealandia. As a geology major, I could sit and listen to lectures about plate tectonics, paleoclimate, and oceanography for days. However, I was surprised to find that some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far were outside of lecture, and instead, in unlikely places.
The first of the many life lessons I’ve learned came on our first day at sea. A few hours after departing, mostly everyone was feeling a bit seasick. Although I wasn’t feeling great, I wanted to push through the feeling of nauseousness and continue on with the work at hand. I’ve always found it hard remember to give my mind and body breaks. But Steve was adamant about letting us know that it was completely fine to take a break. After taking some dramamine and a quick nap, I was already feeling much better. Working while I’m not completely focussed doesn’t help me accomplish much. I’ve always been one to push myself through pain or stress, but I quickly realized that taking time for myself is going to allow me to continue to push myself further in the long run.
The next lesson I learned also came fairly soon after departing. After being on board for just a short period of time, I quickly learned how living on a boat differs from living on land. For example, if doors are not held open or closed shut, they can become a safety hazard. The motion of the ship causes them to violently swing. Something as innocent as a cabinet door could really hurt someone if we aren’t careful. We were told that the heavier metal doors have the potential to cut fingers off. This reminded me how important it is to pay attention to what I’m doing, because my actions can have consequences that can hurt me or others.
On a more positive note, the last lesson I learned is a bit cliché, but I believe it’s important to remember. Each evening, as long as the weather is fair, all of the students head outside to watch the sunset on deck. Sunsets in the middle of the ocean are beyond incredible, and no picture can truly capture the fiery glow of the entire sky. However, I’d have to say my favorite moment of the trip so far was during a stormy night. A thunderstorm in the distance was just close enough for us to watch the lightning spread across the entire sky. A few other students and I stood in peaceful silence, just waiting for the next big lightning bolt to strike. These quiet evenings surrounded by beautiful scenery reminded me not to take little things for granted. When life gets hectic, I’ll keep these little moments in mind. I’m so lucky to have met such wonderful people and to be able to share these experiences with them.
Carissa Root
June 9, 2019
