Ocean

• Jorjia Day, Grade 7
• Short Story
• 2019

I am still. Everywhere is silent. Peace at last. My clammy hands steadily grasp a plastic paddle. My feet are planted as I try to keep my balance. I'm standing on a solid paddle board drifting over the cool, pristine water. The sea is lapping at my toes like a thirsty cat, and the waves cradle me like a warm, loving mother rocking her baby to sleep. I can hear the loud, cries of sea birds overhead, and taste the saltiness of the ocean. The sun is setting on the horizon, casting a blanket of gold over the calm sea. Dolphins surround me, leaping out of the water chasing helpless fish that would soon be their dinner. I tremble on my board as they cause waves. Out here I'm happy. Out here I'm free.