Oceans Of My Mind: A Quest For Meaning In Unpredictable Times

by Scott Stillman

Struggling from symptoms of post-lockdown stress disorder (PLSD), Stillman and his wife load paddling, snorkeling, and wing foiling gear into a van and race south to the Florida Keys in search of refuge and what the future might hold in a world they barely recognize. Exploring mangroves, barrier islands, and coral reefs, they look to the deep blue sea for the answers they desperately hope to find.

In Stillman’s fourth collection of nature essays, Mother Ocean teaches us about life, death, freedom, and insecurity, leading us down paths of self-discovery and the ultimate quest to find meaning in unpredictable times. Above and below the surface, we learn how to connect with the Earth’s natural pulses and rhythms. Cultivating a deep relationship with the ebb and flow of the tides, we discover new ways to navigate our rapidly changing world.

191 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 28, 2022

Reviews

[Lynn McNeill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting viewpoint on life and living. The descriptions of Florida wildlife and landscapes are beautiful. Everyone can learn from this book to pay attention to what we need and work towards a life that fits our unique circumstances. Scott's exuberance on learning new skills is contagious and I totally agree that learning by trial and error and not giving up is a powerful feeling. Each of us can obtain impressive skills, if we keep going beyond the initial failures, take baby steps and succeed.

I am happy for Scott and Valerie and grateful they have embraced this beautiful life and shared it with us.

[Genevieve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great little book from Scott! This one had a lot more interspersed nature observations and experiences than the last one I read, which took a little getting used to, but his lifestyle & existential commentary (and the mental clarity they bring) are still spot on. Nice quick read and enjoyable, a Scott Stillman book is always great for realigning the internal compass.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read two of his other books which I rated five star. This one wasn't quite as relatable for me because the setting was the Florida keys and I have spent very little time in any tropical locations. As usual, though, his descriptions were on point and I could definitely imagine being there. It sounds amazingly beautiful. I enjoy living vicariously through the author who is able to travel and enjoy wild places full-time, which is something I would love to do. I share a lot of similar views with him as far as protecting wild places and the earth, in general. I felt like this particular book had some more controversial topics, but at the same time thought-provoking.

[Mark Lawry · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a National Parks junky myself an ad for his book showed up on my Facebook wall. I figured, can't be too bad to read about exploring parks. I'm always left speechless at an Everglades, or a rim of the Grand Canyon, or a Yellowstone, etc. Yet I could certainly never write 170 pages about how I feel when at such a place. This is what Stillman has done here. I've only done the Florida Keyes once, at high speed, while trying to reach Dry Tortugas. After having read this, I feel that maybe that was a mistake and my kids and I need to more slowly redo the Everglades and the Keys.

[Kyla Schneyder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flow with the rhythm of nature

Enjoyable read. I bought Scott Stillman series and it’s refreshing to feel the ebb and flow of life through his books! As nature and freedom, lack of security have always been part of my life, his books reinforce what I know. But for those that are Stuck in the electronic, media world, his books will hopefully wake them up and give them courage to Follow their Dreams!

[Jim Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

Such an enjoyable read. After experiencing a heart attack that rendered me clinically dead 4 times and a trip to the other side, I came back determined to enjoy life. I’d gotten a bit stale and this book was a refreshing new breath of fresh air. A recommitment to step away from the current chaos and head to the seaside and the mountains as often as I can. Jim Owen author of In Search Of A River.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love his books and message.

[Michael Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like the other two of his books that I’ve read, Stillman’s beautiful essays in this one transported me to the natural world and reminded me to slow down and enjoy the important things in life.

[Amy Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this book doesn’t make you want to change your life, head to the mountains or ocean, then nothing will! Absolutely loved this book! Read it in one day, now onto Wilderness!!!

[Daryl Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grounding

Excellent read. Only thing I would change is some of the vague political reference near end and comment regarding mental health.