I wake up at dawn to get to the beach before the crowds. There is something about the eery, serene feeling of being there alone. As I stare out to the tumultuous sea, I remember how small I really am. The wave intimidates me as it surfs its back up at me and crashes at my feet. Almost as if it is my opponent. The water sprays up and tickles my skin and engages my senses. I head in alone me versus the angry ocean and I can't wait to take it all on. I start to paddle in as the wave descends. The taste of the salt water makes me thirsty yet I continue on wondering what lies beneath me.