Trawler Blogs

The loss of a True Hero.

Today I received an email from my old friend and anti whaling activist, Will Anderson. It simply stated I needed to call him as the message had to be made in person. I knew what it was as tears began to fall and I skyped his number. Alberta “Binki” Thompson had passed away.  Will had been a loyal aid to Binki for the last decade and knew I had a strong love of this courageous hero.

Back in the late 90’s the Makay Tribe decided to end their hundred year moratorium on killing whales. This was a diabolical plot including the Clinton Administration, VP Al Gore in the lead, National Marine Fisheries, The National Marine Sanctuary, Japanese and Norwegian whaling interests.  The news frenzy was amazing as anti whalers butted heads with heavily federally funded tribal leaders. The tribe members either joined the force or kept quiet due to extreme pressure. All but one; then 76 year old Makah elder, Alberta Thomson, took a stand.

The anti Whalers rallied around Binki. I hosted a series of seminars to show the public why we were against the killing of whales as the press was only showing one side. As speakers I had Capt. Paul Watson, a selection of other anti whaling activists, Congressman Jack Metcalf and my new friend Binki. When she told of her close encounters with grey whales and the bond she felt with them, there was not a dry eye in the audience.  I had to actually rearrange the speakers as I had the Congressman last at the first event but felt bad introducing him with teary eyes to a sobbing audience, from then on Binki was the anchor.

The tribal leaders took a no tolerance stand against anyone who opposed them. Binki suffered horrendously at the hands of the tribal leaders. She lost her job, her daughter lost her land rights and they even killed her little dog! It took courage like most us will never know to stand her ground. She would not yield. She used every opportunity to speak against the killing of these fine animals and she did it with poise and charm always speaking calmly and with love.  

Binki spent the last years of her life quietly in a rest home near her native home at Neah Bay.  She was not forgotten by the whale activists that visited her often and kept in touch.

There are a few things that I just know about the world beyond and one is that Binki is sitting next to God, for I know God smiles on those who help his precious whales.

“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

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As I sit rooftop cruising in the beautiful Malay waters.. I have David Gray’s album playing in the background and the peaceful ambiance of the splashing waves. Life is fabulous – and I think of how fortunate I am to be here!

I joined Furthur 2 months ago after spending the last year traveling around parts of Asia. When in the Philippines a fellow traveler told me about the website, Findacrew.net and mentioned that you can join sailors from all around the world.  When checking it out, I thought, ‘Wow, this sounds like an incredible experience that I would love to endure!’  Brian & I got in contact in November and spoke about joining the crew, however I had travel plans to meet up with my sister in India until mid February so couldn’t commit to anything until after that.

Being on the boat has been a very relaxing time since leaving bamboozling India. Mostly, I love having my own bedroom, my clothes out of my backpack and in drawers, and a galley to cook in. Marina & I spend our days deciding what delicious meal to create next – from fresh seafood, to exotic salads, to home baked goods. And boy is it nice to have the opportunity to eat western food again.

The cruising lifestyle has opened my eyes to something I would love to continue to partake in the future.  From waking up early to do yoga at sunrise while a school of dolphins dance at the bow, jumping off the top deck into the deep blue waters, kayaking into bat filled caves, daily scuba diving adventures and meeting fabulous people from all walks of life having the same common interest – boating!

I have learnt a lot in the past months.. about cruising, waterways, cultures, people and myself. I want to thank Brian for allowing me this opportunity and opening my eyes to a lovely lifestyle, and Marina for being the perfect crew mate and great new friend!

So as the burning hot sun shines on my back, a cold drink in hand, the most peaceful surroundings, and a big smile on my face… I am thankful for each and every moment available – this is your life, blink and you’ll miss it!

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I’m re-visiting this post that I wrote almost a month ago… and just finished our ‘Last Supper’ on the boat before Marina and I jump ship and sail to Japan. We made it to Borneo safely and have spent the last 2 weeks surrounded by beautiful crystal waters diving, swimming and relaxing aboard.  Things have sure changed since I joined the boat … Marina and I are currently drinking RED wine out of Selene wine GLASSES! Shocking moment on Furthur – since both red wine and glasses are no-no’s,

 1. Red wine stains, 2. Glass shatters!

So, let’s just say this is the ultimate sign that we’ve gained the trust of Brian. Cheers!

Until next time ..Peace & Love,

Amy