So Close and Yet So Far

While having dinner at a friend's flat, I realized that there was water behind my house. Let me further explain. Her flat is up a god-awfully steep hill. From this view I could see where my house was and see that the ocean was in fact where I had originally thought that it was. I thought I was only a few block from the harbor, in any case, and this was now confirmed. You may wonder how I had not realized this previously. Well, there are a lot of hills and things that I didn't think I could go over. Mountainous hills, really. Now, with newfound determination, I ventured off to find this water. First, I had to avoid the big hills, then I had the obstacle of some sports club that I am too intimidated to cross. I just have the idea that these people are rich and relaxing from their very stressful jobs that would make them kick my butt if they saw me trespassing. None of this could be true and I wouldn't know, but I did take the half hour detour around the grounds. After conquering this walk, I knew where the water was supposed to be, but again, without climbing the big hills, I had only one option. I must walk on the small sidewalk that ran along what looked to be the freeway. With only a moment's hesitation, I began my journey.

I walked three kilometers along this freeway without ever making it next to the water. I cannot begin to express my disappointment and frustration. I have pictures to go along with this (which I will post as soon as I get my new power cord from Dell New Zealand) because I am betting that you don't understand how this is possible. I could see the ocean, sure. I could smell it, feel the ocean air on my face. But I could not get to the water because of the industrial zone. There were fertiliser companies and cement mixing companies blocking my way. When they weren't, a steep, rocky hill followed by train tracks stood between me and the ocean. Even on the other side of the harbor, which I seriously consider walking to, didn't have any open contact with the water. A busy road laced the coast instead of areas for picnicking and fun. I understand that it isn't particularly beach conducive, but it is still water.

My revelation is that these people take the coast for granted because it is an island. I mean, the entire border is all water, so what do they care that they happen to take the only coast within walking distance of my flat and make it a big, old, smelly industrial zone. I did consider climbing the barbwire fences and dangerous railroad tracks to reclaim the coast for the people! But, seriously, making it all illegal sort of takes away the serenity and calm that I was hoping to observe waterside anyway. If I want oceanic peace and calm, I have to buy a bus ticket. For now, I refuse, but once I have a job, we'll see.