9 Comments
User's avatar
Dana Allen's avatar

I was there with you Larry. Lovely story and I hope you remember that whale when you want to be present xx

Larry Urish's avatar

Thanks Dana. Great idea.

To that end, I’m going to print out an image of a gray whale as a critical reminder to stay in the now.

Simon Emslie's avatar

This is such a delightful read, Larry! Even without those photos, I was transported to an enchanted realm of underwater magnificence.

You’ve married up your irrepressible wit with descriptions of place that pop, bang and whizz. And I doubt there’s a better example of the power of being in the present.

What an incredible encounter! And to have seen your new majestic friend twice must have been just incredible. I’m glad that Pascal didn’t miss out.

That moment when you both gaze at each other — you experienced something that 8 billion people, thereabouts, can only dream of.

A wise man and fabulous storyteller once told me to infuse a story with the 4 Ps. Your piece shows me both why and how. Cracking stuff!

Larry Urish's avatar

Thanks a million, Simon 🙏

That you provide such eloquent feedback in both the Google Docs version and this version of the story speaks volumes about your contributions to Write Hearted. We're so glad to have you in our motley crew!!

Flori Posen's avatar

I feel as though you just took me down 40 feet with you. That was your best writing I’ve read…so far. Your descriptive abilities paint quite the picture - to the point that I had to remind myself to breathe at times while reading. The combination of experiencing terror and glee simultaneously has seriously stuck with me. I know you won’t forget ever seeing that whale. I don’t think I’m likely to forget reading this story.

Larry Urish's avatar

Thanks, Flori!

Truth be told, I've always had trouble with "setting," furnishing a credible sense of place in any story. (Dialog, on the other hand, is easy.) So when I started this story, I challenged myself to give the reader an accurate picture of what scuba diving in a kelp forest is really like. Glad to hear it resonated with you! :)

Rick Lewis's avatar

What a fabulous and enjoyable story this was to read. The combination of your descriptive prose about this captivating scene, your introspective insight, and sense of humor all make for a banger of a tale Larry. Lovin' your stuff my friend. Keep it coming.

Brigitte Kratz's avatar

I still can’t believe the whale came back. What a magical story and moment ✨

Thriving Leadership Academy's avatar

Beautifully told, Larry. Love the detail and the moment-by-moment aspect. Felt like I was there too.