Stranger In Paradise
Rabbi Nachum Shifren
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."
* 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!
