The Heart of Paddling

Today I can hear my dog snoring, the buzzing of my printer, and even the sliding of a box across a table downstairs. It's quiet at KIALOA because 4 of our team are in Florida setting up for Surf Expo. Their absence also has me answering phones, which is actually something I miss. Not the act of answering the phone per se, but talking to paddlers - I miss that.

Thirty minutes ago I spoke with a woman from Washington, a newer outrigger paddler looking for guidance. We talked paddles, naturally, but we also shared a couple of stories, laughed a bit, made a connection. I smiled.

Moments later I am going through the mail and a letter appears. A simply typed letter with all of the appropriate conventions, salutations, dates etc. I'm thinking, I love this! I haven't received a traditional letter in who knows how long. The letter holds five easy sentences that I want to share:

"A few years ago I bought an outrigger paddle at Island Paddler. I am very pleased with the paddle because it has lasted for a very long time. The paddle feels very nice flowing through the water and is very easy to use. It is comfortable and is very light. I use my paddle every day and I enjoy it very much. Thanks for making great paddles."

Another smile, and this one is so big it spurs me to write this blog. Thank you to Cameron Miscovish, the person who wrote the letter, for lifting my spirits and bringing me back to the heart of paddling. Mahalo.