THE OCEAN GUARDIAN’S STORY

Long ago some of our airy kin descended to settle on firm inland soil, creating human lives devoted to farming and cultivating gardens. Others of us cast our earthbound lot near the ocean, its wild bounty and boisterous rhythms reminding us of our old skyward lives.

Our transformed wings now row boats and cast nets, and our fledglings run on strong legs along endless beaches.

At times, though, a child is born who belongs to the sea…a merchild who finds its greatest joy among kelp and starfishes. The mothers of such children guard the waters and wait patiently for their offspring’s visit. Alas, such a beloved may be held only a brief time, then wistfully returned to its destined realm.