Enamored with Antarctica
22nd March, 2008When the sunlight kissed my face as my feet touched ground on the Antarctic Continent, I realized that my life would never be the same. I immediately felt this overwhelming sense of serenity and humility coupled with an unprecedented joy. I have made it to paradise. Nothing quite prepares you for the sudden rush of emotion that comes to you when you witness the beauty Antarctica has.
As cliché as it may seem, a person can truly find himself in Antarctica. Her nature is so intriguing as her beautifully rugged exterior behaves as a façade to her real desire- wanting you dead. I have been so fortunate to observe and feel Antarctica in her fury, yet also seeing her at peace. This paradox of Antarctica is what has enabled me to become completely enamored by her. I can’t help but to be saddened for the rest of the world as they will never witness true beauty. Photos do not have the ability to capture the 360 degrees of heaven that surrounds you.
Standing in Antarctica you have never been more surrounded and never been so alone. You close your eyes and listen to the conversations of penguins and the unrecognizable stillness. The smell of Antarctica, at times, is very similar to any wharf. Antarctica is harsh and cold to the touch, but so pleasing to the eye. Antarctic snow seems to taste just a little bit sweeter.
It is difficult to articulate what happens to all five of your senses while in Antarctica. She is so much more than a collection of beautiful colors. I feel so honored to be one of the few to have seen what Antarctica truly is and always has been.
Wow Em….. Your words left me speechless, brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart, all at the same exact moment. Thank you. I love you… ~Mom
Posted by Patti Ziegler on 03/22/08, 8:28 am
Hey Em - Just an awe-filled acknowledgement that we enjoy your superb prose relating the expedition’s tremendous experiences. “We long to here your wondrous stories…” Stay warm and dry. Seamus, who took Criquet walking in the Nottingham wood, sends Hibernian regards. yzyz
Posted by Jim Ziegler on 03/22/08, 9:04 am