Mango, that Humpback story reminds me. I was in the Ocala forest and thought I was at a land locked lake fed by a spring that I was visiting. I think it was Salt Springs. Anyway, the lake was crystal clear also, just not as blue as the springs. Suddenly, I saw what looked like whales rolling in the lake. I had encountered manatee on that trip elsewhere, but hadn't seen them roll on the surface like that. I snorkled out and could not find them. They were going through the grasses and mucking up the water a bit, making seeing them difficult from a distance. Suddenly, a woman from a boat, who was also watching the manatee, called to me, saying the manatee were right by me. I didn't see them, but when I put my face back into the water, one was inches from my face. It scared the be-ge-bes out of me (I'll have to learn to spell that one day) Anyway, I did not want to violate any rules about harassing them, so I stayed motionless and let them move in and out and around me while doing nothing. There were several, maybe 4 or so from my memory. And there were young with their mother. And the mother was huge. I'd put it up against any hippo for size. This thing, I'm serious, you cannot imagine unless you are next to it. I know they are not dangerous, but the shear size was intimidating. Anyway, the eye contact, next to my face was spiritual. I can see why they were thought by some sailors to be mermaid, because they're eyes looked human and had love within them. I sure fell. But what happened next was a tranquil moment that still lives with me. It was below me, in about 12 feet maybe. Slowly, it began to become buoyant and rise, right up to me. It finally reached my body and we connected. My chest and body were absorbed by it, and it continued to rise until I was actually lifted out of the water a little. Then it carried me. I get chills writing this. It actually rode me for a bit, nice and slow.
I've wanted to bring my kids to that part of Flroida in the winter to see if they too can experience such a wonder. Incidentally, every one I've seen has had scars from propellers. And I've seen plenty. Some gashes were just downright ugly. But those, seen up close, in the wild, are some of the most wonderful creatures on the Planet. God had a good day when he created the manatee. His hand may have been shaking when he designed me, but with the manatee, he was 'spot on'.
I enjoyed myself from a safe distance. So, you've actually been speared by one in the ribs? I won't ask about any appendage issues or encounters, all in good time lol In all seriousness though, I'd love to hear about you getting hit by one. I'm sure if it would have wanted to it could have easily broken your ribs. But I'd love to hear that story.
