I feel I've given Maui a solid go, and thus conclude that it's just not the place for me. There are a number of reasons (both practical and personal) for coming to this decision, but really what's the point in elaborating? Instead, I'd rather focus on the things that I am excited to be working towards.
For several years now, I have had my eye on an opportunity on Catalina island in southern California called CCamp. This is a summer camp for kids who, among other similarly engaging activities, want to become certified to scuba dive. The camp takes place entirely on the island, and working with these kids is, by all accounts, an absolutely thrilling way to spend a summer.
Several of the divers from my university program that I either helped train or trained with will be working there as well, so it will be a fun opportunity to catch up with old friends. Additionally, employment at the camp offers the chance to earn scuba instructor status, and includes professional liability insurance for one year. How great is that?
Most of all though, I'm simply looking forward to diving in colder California water. While Maui offers warmer seas and greater visibility, it lacks the magic that, for me, makes diving there so absolutely intriguing. I have seen a lot of incredible sights in my young life, but nearly all of the most powerful wildlife experiences have taken place beneath that California sea. Golden kelp glittering in the morning sun, thousands of squid mating 140 down, and dolphins glowing green in brilliant bioluminescence...these are the things that, for me, making diving worthwhile.
I am glad that I have come here to Maui with Jenn. It has been an incredible opportunity to learn more about my chosen career, and also about being in a healthy, supportive relationship. While I do not see myself ever moving back to Hawaii, I will nonetheless look back on my time on Maui with an appreciation for the lessons, both personal and professional, that were learned here.
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