Ocracoke Island has found a special place in my heart. We have been visiting for 3 years now and each year, something deep inside me is stirred up. I'm not sure what it is, exactly, but I know that when I leave, I feel a deep sense of sorrow and loss. The same feeling of sorrow and loss that I felt when I was moved from Bonaire to Charlotte, when I was 16 years old. ( I cried myself to sleep each night for about 6 months after the move).
What is it about a place that stirs up so many hidden emotions? What is it about a place that I can go to once a year and feel at home?
The locals, the ones who have family roots going back a hundred years are some of the friendliest people I have met. I've made friends with a few of them. They take the time to tell me their stories, their thoughts and wishes. Good, hard working people.
I love the life that I have worked hard to make here in the WNC mountains, but it seems that my roots lie on the coast. It is something I can't change.
I got the opportunity to pitch in and help unload fresh fish at the local fish house. I enjoyed that more than just standing around watching my friends work. I can't stand to watch other people work. I want to be useful.
I'm having trouble putting my emotions into words, but deep down inside, I can't help but wonder about a connection with an island. What does it mean, and what should I do with those feelings?
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