First Time Surfing: A Lesson in Gusto

Dear friends, today I want to share a story from my youth, a tale of adventure, courage, and most importantly, gusto. It’s a story about the first time I ever tried surfing.

The Call of the Ocean

It was the summer of ’65. I was a young lad, full of energy and curiosity. My family had taken a trip to the beautiful shores of California. The golden sands, the azure waves, and the surfers riding them with such grace and skill – it was a sight to behold. I was captivated, and I knew I had to try it.

Embracing the Challenge

With a borrowed surfboard under my arm and a heart full of determination, I approached the sea. I won’t lie to you, my friends, I was scared. The waves were intimidating, and the thought of falling was terrifying. But I remembered a saying my father used to tell me, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.” So, I took a deep breath, and with a surge of gusto, I plunged into the ocean.

The First Ride

After numerous attempts and countless falls, I finally managed to catch a wave. The feeling was exhilarating, like flying and floating all at once. It was a moment of pure joy, a testament to the power of gusto and perseverance.

The Lesson Learned

That day, I learned a valuable lesson. Gusto is not just about enthusiasm or energy, it’s about courage. It’s about facing your fears, embracing challenges, and never giving up, no matter how hard it gets. It’s about living life to the fullest, with passion and zeal.

So, my dear friends, I urge you to embrace gusto in your life. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, pursuing a dream, or facing a difficult situation, do it with gusto. Remember, life is not just about surviving, it’s about thriving. And with a little bit of gusto, you can ride the waves of life with grace and joy, just like I did that summer day.

Until next time,

Kev