Surfing Out of the BoxJune 2011
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Paul
Paul is the owner of Sojourner Surfboards in Morro Bay.
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Morro Rock

Project Surf Camp

By Paul Finley

Surfers

I can clearly remember the pivotal moment in my life of standing up on my surfboard and going down the line of a wave for the first time. It's funny to actually write out these words, almost like a confession of sorts, but that little moment has shaped my life and played a part in most of my life decisions since. Some people are just naturally drawn towards a particular thing. In nature and wildlife, these loving commitments can always be built upon. They will always be fresh and always provide a scene of wonder and intrigue if we allow our minds and hearts to be humbled by the vast creativity of this painting that we find ourselves in.

Just when we think we know all there is to know about something in nature, something or someone pops it's head up and says, "But you've never seen me before, or you've never seen me do this." Simple wonder and amazement found in the wholesome and pure context of nature can bring many forms of healing and joy to those who take the time to escape the tyranny of the urgent. We have had the privilege of being involved with Project Surf Camp for the past couple years. Project Surf Camp is a non-profit organization that provides an outlet or medium in which special needs children can enjoy the beauty and excitement of the ocean. Water, waves, beach, sand, wind or calm, fog or sunshine, the healing and enriching elements of nature are made available to children who would otherwise have no or very limited opportunity to enjoy these pivotal moments.

Project Surf Camp

When I have the opportunity to volunteer at a camp, it is obvious to see the joyful spirit of the camp as a whole. Smiles abound. I know that the efforts and hours of work and planning that go into these camps have a value and return to them far more important, sustaining, and impacting in these children's lives than anything that can be totaled by calculators or prefaced with a dollar sign.

If you would like more information on volunteering or partnering with Project Surf Camp, please check out the links below.

Project Surf Camp
Project Surf Camp Blog
All images by Katie Finley of Dunes Street Photography
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