Article December 10, 1984 Issue

My Maui monster

CAROLYN HILL

The fish looked directly into my face mask. Clearly we had one thing in common: curiosity about each other!

This was my first experience snorkeling. A glorious new world opened to me in Maui, Hawaii, that day. One group of pencil-thin fish were almost transparent; another species sported iridescent blues and greens. What a variety of color and design, pointing to the infinite wealth of beauty in the universe.

Slowly I made a complete turn and discovered a parade of fish following me. Then suddenly I became aware of a dark object below. I began swimming shoreward, but as I moved, it moved. With the waves pounding against the beach it wasn't likely anyone would hear me if I called out. Fear turned to panic, paralyzing my ability to swim properly. I reached out to God with a simple "Please help me!"

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