I joined a retreat in Ponta do Ouro, Mozambique early March, to swim with dolphins in the warm Indian Ocean. Our lead facilitator has run 60 trips over 20 years. This was the first time in all those trips that bad waves and weather stopped us from going out to sea for all five days.
I was disappointed. It took a flight and a five-hour bus ride from Cape Town. Every morning, the 12 of us woke early hoping for calm waters and a boat launch. That never came.
Instead, we had time for real growth: journaling, beach walks, yoga and meditation, sound journey, cocoa ceremony, healing sessions, trips to local shops, art activities, and swims in the shallows. The care was evident from the organizers who fed us well, and our food drew abundant attention from animals (vervet monkeys, mongooses, cats, birds, but maybe not that single giant snail). The group's great company and openness turned it around.
Real connections grow when plans change. The best moment was the last day: I swam with my three roommates and felt happy and complete. You can't control the weather but you can make the best of it. I left with new friends, deep insights and gratitude.
Sorry dolphins, but you don't get to swim with me this year. Maybe next time.