focus holder

We all decide what the next object should be, and the first person who finds a suitable one is the next focus holder.

When that happens, it makes the hunt all the more interesting! But that's very rare. There's a code we use, easy to slip into ship-to-ship messages, that tells us when the hunt begins again.

I try not to be found. The prupose of the hunt is to be fun as well as reflective, and it wouldn't be as enjoyable if the focus were too easy to find. That's why there's always someone who guards it.

Well, I don't avoid them. That would be suspicious. I just don't tell them I have it when I meet them. And no, that's not all I do. While the hunt is going on I'm also gathering information. I listen to others I know of as Ocean Friends, especially those who aren't Rays because of their responsibilities. I have to represent them at the ceremony following the hunt, so I make sure to keep a record of what they've been doing. It helps keep friends connected who might otherwise not get to meet. Also, since I have the focus--the symbol of flawed thoughts--I collect those thoughts. I'm listening for how other Tideriders speak about the ocean. Those thoughts go into the chants, and giving the focus to the ocean is like releasing those thoughts.

Yes, it's not just the Rays. If others know I'm listening, they would be more careful about what they say, and it's important that what I share is true. So if you wouldn't mind waiting about three months before publishing, this hunt should be over by then.

And thank you for helping me find this. I'm sure I could have found another, but I wouldn't like to risk not having the focus when the hunt ends.