We had Mixed Rowing today. It’s challenging getting people together in the winter to go out on the water in an open boat. Only the hearty need apply. Yet four hearty Mainers braved the cold and we were off.
The glory moment, for me, came after we had finished our row and were on the dock. A twelve year old had spotted a starfish under the dock and wanted to retrieve it. He stuck his skinny little hand in the icy ocean fearlessly and came up with his prize, just at that critical time when the starfish was feeding. Starfish, as you may know send their stomach out after they have opened whatever delicacy they plan to consume. Many of us have studied this phenomena. Few have actually seen it.
The older members of the crew listened politely, genuinely interested while this youngest rower showed us his starfish and explained what we were seeing. Everybody saw it as the perfect blend of academic and experiential. None of us would have had this unique opportunity had we not been outside, living life, doing something real.
Yes, I know it’s “officially” a sea star. Old habits die hard.
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