Miracle

This image holds one of the most incredible days of my life. Growing up here in Hawaii, I’ve dreamed of seeing a whale shark since I was a child. Their rare occurrence off our shores makes each sighting a remarkable event—something that can’t be pursued, only surrendered to.

A few days before my friends and I planned a boat day, I remember thinking, “It would be funny if my dad came back to visit me as a whale shark.” My dad passed away when I was in college, and he’s the reason I hold such a deep love for the ocean. Little did I know, two days later, my dream would come true.

I truly believe that day was my father coming to visit us. I will never forget the pure miracle of that moment.

Hawaii has an incredible organization dedicated to protecting these magnificent creatures. They have a database where you can submit whale shark sightings, and if it’s a new one, you can name it. Not only did I get to see one of my biggest dreams come true, but the whale shark was unnamed—and I had the honor of naming it after my father.

It was one of the most humbling and beautiful moments in my life. I hold so much gratitude for life’s miraculous gifts.

-Printed on archival matte paper.