I've always loved the ocean ever since I was little and my affection only grew stronger as I got older. There was something about a huge mass of water that always seemed to pull me in every time I was near one.

Maybe it was just the curiosity of the unknown or the fact that I could look past the shoreline and just see a continuous line of water and life that has yet to be explored.

It allowed my imagination and thoughts to run free. I would sit with my toes buried in the sand, and just let the ocean breeze hit my face. My thoughts would jump from my mind and dive into the water in front of me, in search of an answer. My eyes would just gaze over the tumbling waves, watching the foam rise on the sand and recede back into the ocean.

It reminded me that whatever was pulling you down would in the end put you in a better place than you were before. It reminded me that life isn't a smooth course, that there are obstacles and hardships that you have to overcome. It reminded me that sometimes you have to look at the bigger picture. It reminded me that you are not alone and there is hope.

It gave me a sense of bravery. It gave me a feeling of youth and empowerment. It gave me a boost of confidence. It gave me inspiration and motivation to conquer whatever life throws at me. It gave me the ability to open my heart up to others and forgive those who have hurt me.

Every step I take into the ocean carries me further and further away from the shore and deeper into the depths of darkness. Not every part of the ocean is safe and welcoming. But why does something that looks so innocent act so deceiving?

It closes me in, not allowing my thoughts or feelings to escape. It makes me feel weak and vulnerable. It takes my bravery and courageousness and turns into fear and hatred. It exposes my deepest fears and secrets and leaves me lost in the midst of my despair.

But even through the dark times, there is still a beauty to it. It's almost like a trap. If you are cautious, then there will be positive benefits. But if you are not careful, it will drag you through hell and back.

Maybe I missed my calling for a profession that involved working with the ocean. Or maybe something stopped me from doing that to protect me? Either way, I will always love the ocean unconditionally for everything it has to offer, whether that's for the good or the bad.