STRANGER IN PARADISE

Every once in a while a surf story crosses our path, that's just a little too good to let slip past without re-telling. Like the fish that got away or the ubiquitous "insane barrel section" which is standard fare whenever surfers congregate, this "fish story" has a twist of a spiritual nature:

Mark Myers of San Diego, made a recent trip to the famous (or infamous) right-handers of Mantachen Bay in San Blas, Mexico. Besides the ritual account of outrageous mosquito bites and nightmarish "no-see-'em" bugs, the following account rates as unique:

"We lucked out and caught stoner's head-high, as good as it gets. The weekend was coming up and I was due to fly out of Mazatlan to San Diego. The truth is, I'm not a religious person, but I like spirituality and am proud of my Jewish heritage. I read that we are not allowed to work on the Sabbath and always wondered what it would be like actually spending one day really resting and not working on doing anything except maybe reading, or a walk on the beach or meditation.

"I was by myself and since the Hotel Los Locos was not renowned for its kosher cuisine, I figured I'd try to improvise. Before sunset on Friday afternoon, (The Sabbath is usually taken in about 1/2 hour before sundown) I got some candles and lit them. Instead of wine, I poured a glass of beer and remembered to make a "l'chaim" ("to life"!).

"It was a strange experience watching some of the other guys at the hotel hop in their cars the following morning and head for the surf - without me. But I was determined to implement my plan, despite the incessant barking. screaming of kids, and the infamous "nortena" (music) coming out of the Coco-Loco Bar down the street. Yet, for all this, I felt like I was doing something that was important for me a a human being - an act of "belonging", and not least of all, trying to change myself and my outlook toward my heritage. Anyway, I know my "Bubbi" (grandmother) would have been proud of me!"

Not all surf stories have to do with waves. Sometimes, someone goes through his own personal test of fire to surpass being a "Stranger in Paradise."

SURF & SOUL MEXICAN SABBATH SURVIVAL KIT

Here's out own JSI Mexican Sabbath Survival Kit:

2 candles*
1 bottle of kosher wine*
Several small loaves of traditional Sabbath rolls*
Several cans of tuna fish
All local fresh fruits and vegetables are o.k. (buy them before you light candles)
Some reading material (very important during that long hammock sessions!)
May we suggest a copy of the weekly Torah portion with commentary, as well as "The Midrash Says", a very popular book with inspiring tales for any pallet.
Lastly, try to leave a night-light on so you don't trip over your board or wax!

Most people loathe to spend the Sabbath away from home, however, with minimal foresight, the surfer can have an inspirational day as he takes in the tropical beauty with a totally new outlook!

* There are special traditional blessings said over lighting candles, drinking the wine and before eating the "challa" bread. If you would like to know more about this ask any local Orthodox rabbi or contact us - and we'll get you the info!