It's been years since this family vacation, but the memories made there are timeless. It included phenomena where my family put aside their differences, kept their pejorative remarks within, and displayed forbearance for the sake of my siblings. There were lovely times of fraternal affection between my brothers, that I haven't seen repeat in the recent years.
There were also moments of fantastic views, sights I never would've thought I would experience within the first decade and a half of my life. Even the air felt cleaner than the urban atmosphere back home.
I was recently speaking to a friend about how life imitates art, and wow. You know the piece, 'Wanderer above the Sea of Fog'? Alaska in June was a surprisingly dreary place. With foggy days seeming never-ending, the weather hardly changed. The cities there were personable, each with their own characteristics and history. It was still and overall delightful experience.
To counteract the monotony of hour upon hours at sea, there were several complimentary activities to do. There were plays and musicals, people dancing on stage, oh it was such a joy to be there. From the food, to the entertainment, to the room service! I sincerely enjoyed that trip. I even developed a taste for daiquiris (I promise they were virgin!).
Here's to more life-changing experiences in the upcoming years, leaving me optimistic to what is hopefully the end of the pandemic.