The weather dictates my life in a way it never did before. Dan and I are staying close to home today to keep an eye on our holding – the wind is blowing in gusts up to 30 knots and it has been since the middle of the night. Besides being sure we don’t drift away, we need to keep watch of our neighbors. The air temperature is 76 degrees but it does not feel warm with the wind so forceful. The sun is shining and the seas are making white caps.
It takes a day like this to allow me time to reflect. I am relatively inexperienced in this comparative study of the landings I have made since my cruising life began. There are some observations, though, that seem worth noting. The disparity in the economic situation between the cruisers and the locals here in Great Exuma is less marked than it was in the D.R. The cruisers seem to have a genuine sense of appreciation for the land and the community they become a part of for, in many cases, half of the year. They seem to convey this to the local people. The reciprocal relationship benefits all. The local market stocks many foods that are found in the States. There is Internet service available for folks outside the market and free fresh water is provided on the dinghy dock. Stocking Island (across the harbor from Great Exuma) provides the major area of anchorage for transient vessels. The local businesses that provide services on Stocking Island are super accommodating to the needs and desires of the cruisers. Beach church, volleyball, art classes and yoga all takes place on the private beach that is trying to make a business on their land. Connections have been made with the local community to assess the local needs. Volunteer groups go to the school for painting projects; school supplies and books make their way to the schools and library. Announcements are made at cruiser gatherings re health issues or other concerns for the well being of the local people. There are approximately 5,000 residents of this island; the cruisers know many by name. The beaches here are clean and free of debris. Based on the experience of other islands, this is no accident. The cruisers pick up the litter that gets washed up from the sea. Respect is shown for the seabed, the landscape and the integrity of the life of those who call this island their home. There is a mutual cooperation in this cruiser/resident relationship that benefits all who enter.
It strikes me that this relationship is a model for how we might hope the world could exist. No dominance, complimentary objectives, mutual respect… “Last night I had the strangest dream…”
