7 years ago
677
21
Posted On: October 1st 2019, 07:55 pm
Tagged Users:
It was a privilege to speak about @vetpaw at @theohanafest last weekend and what a bonus it was to be alongside @melissa.lauren21 from the one and only @sheldricktrust. To present at the same event as Sheldrick is a big deal so presenting together was an honor. My sincerest thank you to @eleniewashere @johnlreese and @stratihov for inviting us to take part in your incredible event. The three of you mean the world to me and I’m blessed that you allowed us to participate. - See you in Africa soon!
.
It was great to finally meet @captainpaulwatson from @seashepherd and his ocean statistics were mind-blowing (house cats eat more tuna than seals). Paul is the perfect example of why conservation leaders must always keep their eyes on the mission no matter how overly passionate some individuals and colleagues can be. The most refreshing part of the weekend was my friend @jeffro_art. If you don’t follow Jeffro then you should because his concept of creating world-class art from driftwood is incredible and he's one of the coolest people you'll ever meet.
.
And I never thought I would meet my all-time favorite surfer @rob_machado in person so when I found out I was speaking after him, I knew it wasn't a coincidence. Rob is more than a surfer to me, he's a big reason I was able to return from war alive. Many Marines have a daily routine they practice during their downtime that helps keep emotions in check. My daily routine, even on my worst days, was meditation. I focused on my childhood surfing memories which allowed me to briefly escape. After patrols, I would put sunscreen on my face to remind me of the beach, and I would watch one of my Rob Machado DVDs until I fell asleep. Some guys would write, play cards or lift, but I watched Rob surf. It was great to see what he and his foundation are doing for our planet and I hope our paths cross again so I can get a picture next time - I have a feeling they will.
-
If I had to use one word, to sum up, our experience at Ohana Fest I'd pick "hope". To see an icon like Eddie Vedder use his platform for the planet was just flat out awesome. VETPAW will be back in force next year!
.
It was great to finally meet @captainpaulwatson from @seashepherd and his ocean statistics were mind-blowing (house cats eat more tuna than seals). Paul is the perfect example of why conservation leaders must always keep their eyes on the mission no matter how overly passionate some individuals and colleagues can be. The most refreshing part of the weekend was my friend @jeffro_art. If you don’t follow Jeffro then you should because his concept of creating world-class art from driftwood is incredible and he's one of the coolest people you'll ever meet.
.
And I never thought I would meet my all-time favorite surfer @rob_machado in person so when I found out I was speaking after him, I knew it wasn't a coincidence. Rob is more than a surfer to me, he's a big reason I was able to return from war alive. Many Marines have a daily routine they practice during their downtime that helps keep emotions in check. My daily routine, even on my worst days, was meditation. I focused on my childhood surfing memories which allowed me to briefly escape. After patrols, I would put sunscreen on my face to remind me of the beach, and I would watch one of my Rob Machado DVDs until I fell asleep. Some guys would write, play cards or lift, but I watched Rob surf. It was great to see what he and his foundation are doing for our planet and I hope our paths cross again so I can get a picture next time - I have a feeling they will.
-
If I had to use one word, to sum up, our experience at Ohana Fest I'd pick "hope". To see an icon like Eddie Vedder use his platform for the planet was just flat out awesome. VETPAW will be back in force next year!
Comments (21)
7 years agokarenadams_ou812
I've always greatly admired Paul Watson. Not only is he a highly intelligent man, he has no fear and he's a total badass. I'm so glad you had the chance to meet and connect with him. 😊
7 years agoeleniewashere
@ryan_vetpaw You were one of my a favorite parts of Ohana Storytellers. Can’t tell you enough how grateful I am to have you and your beautiful “Flygirl” in our life. And we Will see you in Africa❤️
7 years agoamandatate3
Is it possible to like this twice and the Mrs. Frizzle dress to infinity and beyond?
7 years agoemily.feld
You are doing amazing work over there. I think we are all living in hope that humanity changes its ways 👊
More posts
