A Surfer's Farewell

Have you ever witnessed a memorial paddle out for a

surfer who has died? Have you ever been a participant?

These ceremonies may seem strange to the uninitiated,

somewhat mysterious.

Surfer's gather on the beach huddle together exchanging

nods or brief hellos,  take the flowers or lei's

that someone thoughtfully brought, and after a few moments

all paddle out into the ocean.  Once they have arrived at

a spot out past the lineup, past the breakers, they form a

circle facing inward.  Someone who knew the departed surfer

well usually begins by saying a few words about their friend, others

take their turn.  Words are often touching memories and at times

humorous comments.  Tears mix with smiles.  The paddlers draw in

the circle holding hands as someone  usually begins a chant.  The

flowers are tossed into the center of the circle as a final goodbye

than the assembled surfers head to shore hopefully catching a wave

for their comrade.  There are hoots and hollers and all too soon

the ceremony is over.

Yesterday I took part in such a paddle out.  Alan Wolf was a surfer

I knew only casually.  He always shared his joy and aloha spirit with

everyone in the lineup.  His warmth and connection with the seasonal

community of Rincon was obvious.  That sense of community really

touched me as I looked around the circle.  Faces I've seen for years,

some who I knew as friends or by name, others with whom I'd

exchanged a friendly nod.  

This is, in part, what being a surfer is about.  Being part of 

a community,sharing a love of  a place and a of a lifestyle that

binds us together.  This is what can and should be an example

to us all.  We are all part of a much larger community, all share 

a planet.  We are all in this together for a short while.  To

paraphrase or quote Gandhi - be the change you want to

see in the world.