A Journey We'll Never Forget

A few weeks ago, we took a group of our elementary and middle school students whale watching. For many of them, it was their first time seeing the ocean stretch endlessly in every direction. Some clutched the railings with nervous laughter. Others stood still, wide-eyed as the waves splashed their faces. Then someone pointed, just ahead, a baby whale swam closely beside its mother.

The guide told us they were migrating, following ancient routes in search of safety and warmth.

I watched our students marvel at the whales. Some reached for their phones. Others simply stood still, trying to hold the moment. And something moved in me. There was something unmistakable in the sight of that pair, mother and child, traveling together, vulnerable and magnificent.

It reminded me of the mothers we know. The ones who make hard journeys with quiet strength, leading their children toward something better because they must. No one questioned the whales’ presence. No one asked if they belonged. We simply stood in awe in their of pursuit of survival.

This day will stay with me for a long time because it reminded me of how nature has always understood something that our society still struggles to: that migration is an act of love, survival, and courage.

Sarah Arce, 
Elementary Coordinator