The Great Outdoors
Hawaii
When I was stationed in Hawaii, I was able to enjoy
the great beaches and ocean water in my free time. I tried to surf there, but
the waves were a lot more powerful than in my hometown Huntington Beach. After
almost killing myself on the coral several times, I sold my board! Hawaii also
has several hiking trails that lead to fabulous views of the island, and the
snorkeling is great. These pictures are taken when my girlfriend Ayako visited
me after I returned from Japan in January 96.
Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is located in
California about 150 miles east of L.A, near Palm Springs. The park is renowned
for it's great rock climbing spots, interesting desert plants and animals, and
great views of the stars at night. After I got out of the Marines, me and Ayako
moved to Southern California so we were able to visit Joshua Tree with our dogs
often.
Mexico
One of the greatest advantages of living in Southern
California is that Mexico is right next door. Whether you are searching for wild
bars, great beaches, bargain shopping, or just a break from the hectic American
pace of life, Baja California is a perfect destination. I still vividly remember
the first time I went when I was 15, the attitudes of the Mexican people had a
lasting impact on me. "These people do not seem to think that they are failures
if they do not become millionaires by age 30, despite their relative poverty
they would not trade their way of life with us, they have different priorities"
I thought to myself in an amazement that only one from an arrogant Western
culture could know. I think Americans can learn something from Mexico. Maybe
that million dollar mansion with the Ferrari in the driveway is not the key to
happiness after all. Not that I wouldn't like to have them, but I
don't think I want to spend every waking hour in pursuit of them, which is the
price most of us would have to pay to get that rich. The point is, visiting
other places in which the culture is vastly different than our own can help us
put our own lives in perspective. Of course, a few mariachis and margaritas can
help too!
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