In an instant, the clutter of civilization is behind us and we are surrounded by a canvas of blue as far as the eye can see. The endless view of only blue water and blue sky is both boring and awesome.
The simplicity of it is comforting and gives me a sense of peace. It forces me to notice things I haven’t seen before. Like, how many different shades of blue there are. Or, the yellow butterfly who appeared at the stern of our boat midday when we were 20 miles offshore. Where did he come from? How far can a butterfly fly without landing? I know millions of sea critters live just below but only the occasional flying fish entertains us. Certainly, the sunsets are not just more noticeable, but more spectacular as they break up the blue monotony with oranges and reds.
Tonight, the setting sun ducked behind a puffy cumulus cloud revealing its stunning silver lining. So that’s where that term comes from! Day turns to night and the canvas becomes even more monochromatic as the dividing horizon fades. The stars are bright and the Milky Way runs the entire length of the sky overhead. I notice phosphorous streaks alongside the boat as our motion stirs the water. They’re everywhere–most are small bursts of light, others spread their glow across a couple feet and finally dissipate several feet behind in our wake.
It’s a quiet night with only a few freighters appearing on the horizon and even fewer crossing our path. Soon, the last bit of light from the moon sinks below the horizon and the canvas is now completely black. There is no distinction between sea and sky and we are engulfed in stars with Venus taking center stage. It’s 4:30am and soon the sea artist will open the palette of oranges and reds and draw another day.
Enjoyed this post?
Sign up to receive email notifications of future posts!
