Nature’s Natural Beauty

• Rico Li, Grade 5
• Short Story
• 2018

The first time I saw the ocean was an event that I could laugh at in the far future. I stared at the water, its lapping waves grasping onto the golden sand. A cacophony of joyous laughter came from a group of exuberant children who were splashing in the water. Seagulls swooped up and down, snatching fish and chips from unsuspecting victims. The faint sizzling of barbecue meat beckoned to me, its delicious aroma turning heads. The groaning splash of waves filled the air, and salty ocean spray flew into my mouth, nervousness flowed my body as I walked slowly towards the ocean. My feet touched the waves. Suddenly, the freezing water clawed at my bare legs, but I continued deeper. The waves ceased and calm, and docile water took over. I smiled. Relief swept over me and I laughed. How was I so terrified of such a wonder?