I am writing. I am reading. A lot.
I just finished Shaun Tomson's book "Surfer's Code: 12 Simple Lessons for Riding Through Life."
As a human being, Shaun Tomson doesn't floor me the way Gerry Lopez does, but humility isn't really his thing the way it is for Gerry. When Gerry Lopez tells a story, he's so authentically present to every detail, every person, every other point of view, everything, period - that he disappears and what's left is a simple truth. Shaun's book feels more about Shaun. But that's okay. He was world champion many times - and he has valuable lessons to impart.
At the beach yesterday, I focused on Lesson 8" "I will always ride into shore." It was tempting for me to ignore this lesson because I don't do much "riding" still. But the deeper meaning Shaun gives to this lesson is the importance of doing complete work. If you go surfing, finish strong, surf out. Don't let your session fade away and just decide you're gonna paddle in for whatever reason. Wait for that last wave and give it your all, even though you're leaving for home.
So I did it. I waited for that last wave. It was a tiny little thing. Just right for me. And it delivered me right to the shore, like a cute little wet-suited package.
Both are great surfers, and both have tremendous insight into life's lessons learned through their experiences surfing. Gerry Lopez's mission statement he wrote for his line SRF (Surf Realization Fellowship) sums it all up. Something to live by for sure. Aloha, KL
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