This photograph was taken at the beach shortly before sunset. As I was mesmerized by the sunset, I saw a small seagull approaching the beach. It was low tide and the waves gently rolled onto the seagull’s feet. The seagull was hesitant about the soft call he heard from the ocean and looked to the side, uncertain.

I have always been mystified of sea adventures on a dangerous ship with crashing waves along its bow or cruising along calm waters with peaceful sunsets. My ancestors were fishermen and farmers, so I hear the call of the ocean. In this picture, like the seagull, I have two feet planted on solid ground waiting and calculating my next steps as a student trying to navigate through middle school. There are many possibilities to choose from life; and yet, the pressure of the rolling waves represents the pressure to succeed and choose who I want to be. I know life will be an adventure and I need to muster enough courage to pursue my passion to succeed.