Shades of Blue

The second time I saw a hanging bridge, I never hesitated to cross it. In fact, I relished every walking step as the wooden bridge wobbled under my weight.

The last time I crossed a hanging bridge, I had so many doubts. I feared the uncertainty of  what would possibly be waiting for me at the other side. I was very afraid, and I had my reasons why.

This time, however, the experience was delightful for I was led to a place that offers a much needed rest.

It was a beautiful Saturday morning at Punta Verde Dive Resort in Lobo, Batangas. The sun was up and everything I set my sight on invites me to a quiet retreat. I was surrounded by peace and beauty.

High in this mountain resort, the 250-square meter infinity pool overlooks a breathtaking vista of lush greenery and splendid seascapes.

The thought of infinity pool used to fascinate me. I have always wondered how infinite it can get, and when I finally saw one, I realized that the so-called infinity was nothing but a deceiving illusion of space. I should still be able to swim and tumble on the other side.

The crystal clear sea water is irresistible, so I decided to go down and see it up close. I needed to beat the 136-steps that wind down to a glittering spectacle of sea water. The sea was very calm which allowed a stunning view of the horizon where the sky and sea kiss each other. I reckon that the best time to swim is in the morning because of the high tide that can rise as high as two meters.

The shoreline and sea bed are not sandy at all; they are covered with rocks and pieces of corals. To protect your feet and soles, it is best to wear aqua shoes or slippers with straps if you want to walk along the shore or wade in the water.

As I stared at the sea and the beach, I could not help comparing them. Their contrasting beauty reminds me that life is not perfect.

No, it can never be.

However we pursue things, wherever we go, whatever we dream about; we just cannot have everything. This is a reality. We can never change it, but we can accept it and view it differently.

I cannot have everything, I repeated to myself as I picked a palm-size stone. I threw it in the sea and and its prevailing stillness made the ripples more distinct.

To me, the vast beauty of the sea and the sky far outweighs the unattractiveness of the beach. At this point in my musing, I made a choice. I stripped down to my jammer, wore my goggles, and plunged into the sea.

However beautiful life may seem on the surface, deep down there is always something we need to let go or sacrifice. We have to make a firm choice, and our decision has to be influenced by what we value in our lives most significantly.

Underwater, the colorful fishes that appear once in a while to greet me are worthy of attention. I just felt sorry for myself that I did not bring a set of snorkeling gears. It would be a good idea to spend more time with these marine creatures. I kept a mental note to put that in my checklist next time this kind of occasion repeats itself.

I could not get enough of the tranquility of the sea. It was very affecting and contagious. I rented a kayak to explore the deeper part of the sea. It  was almost effortless to maneuver the paddles.

As I looked around, I have the feeling of having the sea all to myself. One of the staff told me that the resort was fully booked, but I have not seen many of the guests. Perhaps, they did not like the beach or they were probably avoiding the sun. Maybe, they were weary of seeing the same scene again or they were just curling in the comfort and privacy of their lounges.

People have reasons, I muttered.

I have my own reasons as well. Reasons to live. Reasons to hold on to. Reasons to hope. There are three of them. Beyond the azure sky, they all exist as One.

Serenity. Beauty. Infinity.