Flashback - Jumbie, 2004
Saturday, June 02, 2007
an African word derived from djambe, referring to a ghost or malevolent spirit. (Definition courtesy of Wikipedia AND St. John Beach Guide by Gerald Singer)
I found myself in much too shallow water for my skill or comfort. I tried to escape, but it only got worse. I ended up standing on the coral, screaming for help – which I promptly got. I was led to safer, deeper water and I headed back to shore with D. But the anxiety wasn’t over apparently, and I started hyperventilating, sure I was going to drown.
Now I swim with that hot-pink inflatable vest, and sometimes Xanax. And I’m careful – I pay attention to my limitations and instincts. I’m a beginner and I need to keep that in-mind. I need to learn so I can see more each trip. This past trip was a snorkeling success, at Jumbie, and beyond! I learned techniques that were actually really helpful – thanks T!
Below is an excerpt from an essay I wrote on this subject. I sort of feel like "been there done that" with writing on this topic, and I don't want to write about it again.
[excerpt from essay, Wave of Panic. . . ]
Okay, I changed my mind. The essay was up here for a day, but I just thought it was too depressing to live amongst a happy vacation blog. Plus it was a bit long. So instead, I'm including a poem. I wrote this shortly after writing the essay. I'm not very schooled or skilled in poetry so humor me.
Twisting path to rocky shore, cement sand
Uneasy beyond buoys; Progress -
Past twinges; Dramatic trenches
Massive parrotfish
Tense
Enormous urchins, blood red black
Tiny angelfish hover; living coral
Blocked exit
Panic
Urchin spines nearer; Trapped; Stand -
Scream, guided out; Relax
Deep water – calm broken
Cry
Hyperventilate; he lags too far behind
A needlefish, my escort
Please keep up
Beg
Fish drift, glide, dart; Look for shore
One arm outstretched; Smush –
Fingers in sand; Sit; Sob
Wait
posted by Shannon @ 2.6.07,
