Toto and Gloria

Gloria and Toto are two green sea turtles living in captivity. Gloria is much older than Toto, but their age difference doesn't bother her.

The two turtles are enclosed in one of the biggest aquariums in the world, where they witness thousands of visitors coming and going every day.

With her wise eyes and serene demeanour, Gloria exudes an air of ancient wisdom. With her energetic and playful nature, Toto delights children and adults alike and brings a sense of joy and vitality to Gloria's life.

When Toto arrived, Gloria fell immediately in love with her. She gathered all her strength to look after the young one and cheer her up. Gloria enjoys the role of storyteller. She regales Toto with tales of her youth, the vastness of the ocean and its myriad inhabitants, and the adventures she had before she was brought to the aquarium. Toto listens with rapt attention, her eyes wide with awe and admiration.

Gloria, who travelled the seas for 40 years before being captured, often reflects on the freedom that she had. In contrast, Toto was born in captivity and brought to Gloria after her mother didn’t survive childbirth. Despite the captivity, Gloria's vivid descriptions allow her to imagine the freedom and the thrill of the big blue.

As the days pass, the two become silent observers of the human world that passes their enclosures. They see people taking photographs and whispering to each other, oblivious to the longing that resides within them.

"Gloria, why do you think humans find such joy in seeing us behind this glass?"

said Toto with curious eyes.

"That I couldn't quite grasp either, my friend; I have been trying to understand for a long time. "Gloria sighed while her gaze was fixed on the humans passing by.

"Maybe they are curious or fascinated by us and our world. "she added.

"But wouldn't they be able to learn more about us if they just visit us in our true home, where we belong? We seem to bring them joy and laughter while confined to limited space," added Toto.

Toto and Gloria don't like the tank for many reasons; sometimes, they can't see through, making them even more anxious. It's monotonous. Their shell colour has been dulled by the artificial light above. They both almost lost their smell, appetite and hunting instincts. At times, even their sleep.

Gloria has been in the aquarium for many years. She used to be quite the explorer; now, she can only dream about the world and what it used to be. At times, she feels trapped in a circle, bumping into the sides of her tank.

But now and then, a spark ignites within her, and it's during those moments that she rediscovers her true nature. She longs for the feeling of the sand beneath her flippers and the freedom to swim wherever her heart desires. Sometimes, when the visitors are gone, and the aquarium is quiet, she closes her eyes and imagines herself in the open waters, surrounded by the vast ocean.

But despite the monotony and confinement, Toto and Gloria find strength in each other, reminding themselves that they may be physically trapped, but their spirits remain untamed.

"I had the same dream again. We were swimming, me and you, in the middle of the big blue ocean. We danced with tropical fish and played hide and seek with the dolphins. We dived deep and then returned to the surface to feel the sun's rays warming our shells. The currents were guiding us somewhere beautiful. Will we ever go together to explore the ocean, Gloria?" said Toto.

"That, I cannot tell you for sure, my little friend, but if you eat your dinner, I promise to tell you a little story.

Turtles, like us, have been exploring the ocean's depths for millions of years, evolving long before other animals.

The ocean has taught us that life is a constant ebb and flow filled with storms and calm waters. When his majesty calls we answer the call.

We can swim for years, travelling thousands of miles in search of food and adventure. With every stroke of our flippers, we become part of a grand symphony, our hearts beating in harmony with the rhythm of the ocean.

She paused, her eyes sparkling with memories.

“You see Toto, when we swim in the ocean, we are deeply connected to everything around us. The ocean is not just a vast expanse of water; it is a living entity that pulses with energy, drawing us into its embrace.

We can feel the waves whispering secrets and the currents guiding us toward new horizons. The scent of salt and seaweed fills our lungs, reminding us of our place in this incredible world.”

“Imagine gliding through a vibrant coral reef, where the colours of the fish dance filled with joy. You could chase after a school of shimmering sardines. Oh, they are so comical. Or perhaps you would like to explore a hidden cave, where the light filters through the cracks, illuminating beautiful shells and even the occasional friendly octopus.

Gloria’s voice grew animated as she continued, “And then there is the vast migration we undertake.

“Tell me more, Gloria, tell me more, “said Toto with a playful glint in her eyes.

“Picture this,” added Gloria. You and I join a pod of fellow turtles, swimming together under the silver moonlight, guided by the stars above.

Toto could hardly contain her excitement anymore. She grabbed Gloria by her flipper and in an instant she was off, darting through the water, mimicking the scenes, Gloria painted with her words.

“Look, Gloria! I’m swimming with the dolphins! Toto exclaimed, flipping and twisting through the water. She imagined the sleek bodies of dolphins alongside her, their playful clicks and whistles echoing around them as they raced through the waves.

Without the turtles noticing, a group of visitors gathered to watch their delightful spectacle. They stood in awe, their camera clicking furiously as they captured the enchanting scene unfolding before them.

“Look at them! They are so graceful!” one visitor remarked. “It’s like they are performing just for us.”

But Gloria remained undisturbed. She continued her stories over the laughter and noise around her.

“And then, Toto, there are the sea turtles that find their way to the sandy beaches to lay their eggs. They know the exact spot where they were born, returning year after year, guided by an instinct so powerful that it connects them to the entire ocean.”

Toto, listening carefully, imagined the tiny hatchlings making their way to the sea.

“ I want to help them, Gloria!” she called out, pretending to guide the little ones to safety.

The visitors continued to snap pictures, captivated by the vibrant energy of the turtles.

Gloria's stories flowed on, her voice a gentle current guiding them deeper into the wonders of the ocean.

“And as we explore, we learn to protect our home. We must be guardians of the sea, keeping safe for all its creatures, “ she said, her heart swelling with pride for the ocean that had nurtured her for so long.

Together, they swam, the visitors watching in awe as the turtles embraced the magic of the moment, unaware of the world around them.

“Oh. The Great Barrier Reef. My wish for you is to witness its beauty. The beach where I was born is a place one never forgets. The sand stretches as far as you can see. There, one can bask in the sun all day long, undisturbed. You can rest your tired flippers covered in the warm, soft sand.

If I close my eyes, I can see myself swimming between coloured tropical fish murmuring to each other, vibrant blues and purples, dazzling oranges and pinks. Giant clams and corals. Schools of tropical young fish. The friendly clown fish, with its vibrant orange body and stripes, makes a great but be aware, a not-so-brave companion.

Graceful sea turtles glide through the water, their shells contrasting beautifully against the coral backdrop in search of sweet seagrass. You have to meet them! The manta rays live around and might not look as friendly, but never judge a book by its cover. They tend to be very trustworthy and helpful.

"Do you see that little jellyfish over there?"

“He doesn't know that he is a delicious snack for us green turtles.

My dear, I used to travel thousands of miles to find the most exquisite ones."

Toto's eyes widened in astonishment.

"Are turtles eating jellyfish?" she asked, her voice trembling with excitement and terror.

With a gentle nod, Gloria replied,

"Indeed, my dear friend. We turtles have acquired quite the taste for these gelatinous creatures. But my dear, if you ever break out of here, I must warn you that there is something resembling a jellyfish. It's what humans call plastic. This human-made creature gracefully moves on the water just like the jellyfish, and based on our instinct, we hunt them, fooling ourselves and falling into a trap.

It happened to me once, and I promise you that in those moments, I experienced such pain that I thought I would go to Turtle's Haven.

"If we will ever be free in the ocean, we can help others and make them aware of this monster. Or maybe we can stop humans from making this creature ever again.

"And how would we do that, asked Gloria with a smirk."

"Well, we have to tell them! They have to know what that thing is doing to us and our home," said Toto, full of confidence.

"But, my dear, we don't speak their language," added Gloria.

"You are right. I haven't thought it through. There must be a way, though. I promise to find a solution." said Toto.

"I am sure you will, my dear. I am sure you will!" said Gloria, looking thoughtfully at the shark in the opposite enclosure.

"You see, Toto, aquariums can be beautiful places, but they often become prisons for these magnificent creatures.”

Toto gazed intensely at the shark, whose lifeless eyes seemed to reflect an emptiness that tugged at his heart.

"He looks unwell to me, Gloria,” whispered Toto.

"He is a lost soul. His ability has been limited as well.

The water quality is not always what it should be.”, Gloria explained gently.

“ In the wild, the ocean is rich with life, its currents teeming with nutrients and the essence of freedom. But here, it can become stagnant and polluted, filled with chemicals that distrust our natural balance. The stress from being watched is higher especially for his species, from being unable to swim freely, which can impact their entire nervous system. It changes their behaviour. Sharks become lethargic, and withdrawn and lose their instinctual drive to hunt or interact with others.

His confinement is driving him insane, day by day. "

Toto shuddered at the thought. “ So they cannot be who they are meant to be?”

“Exactly,” Gloria, continued, her tone serious.

“ Their natural development is interrupted. In the wild, they learn to navigate the ocean, to hunt and to communicate with their kin. But here, they are robbed of that experience, feeling lost and confused. Their behaviour shifts as they struggle to adapt to an unnatural environment.”

"But what about us?”Toto asked, a hint of worry creeping into her voice.

“Will we ever lose ourselves like that?”

Gloria smiled softly, her eyes sparking with warmth.

"No, my little one. We are fortunate to have each other, and our bond keeps us grounded. We are connected to the ocean, as long as we remember our roots, we will remain true to ourselves.

Toto nodded, but the image of the shark lingered in her mind.

“Do sharks and turtles fear each other? She asked.

“ I mean, they seem so different.”

“They do fear each other,” Gloria acknowledged.

“But fear is only one part of the story. In the ocean, there is a delicate balance. Let’s call it a circle for life. Predators like sharks play a vital role in maintaining that balance. They take only what is necessary for their survival. It’s a hard truth, but every creature has its place, and must respect the role of the other.”

“That’s incredible, “ Toto said, her voice thoughtful. “It is sad to think that they have to sacrifice themselves for the greater good. “

“Yes, it is, “ Gloria replied, her gaze returning to the shark. “But remember, Toto, even predators have feelings. They live for the ocean just as we do and they care for their environment. They are not mindless killers but driven by instinct, just as we are. They understand the necessity of their action, and within that understanding lies a profound respect for the life that surrounds them.”

Toto looked back at the shark, trying to see beyond its intimidating exterior.

“So, in a way, they are trying to survive, just like we are?”

“Precisely, my dear, “ Gloria said, her heart filled with pride for her little friend’s insight.

“Every creature in the ocean, from the smallest plankton to the largest whale, is intertwined in this vast web of life. We all share the same home, and it is our responsibility to honour that connection.”

"Thank you for helping me understand, Gloria, “ Toto said softly, wiping away a tear.

“I feel a little less scared now. You are my entire world, Gloria. I don’t know what would I do without you”.

Gloria nudged her gently, her voice filled with warmth. “Always remember, my little one, that knowledge brings strength. And as long as we have each other, we will navigate the depths of this aquarium together, facing whatever comes our way.”

Years drifted by while Gloria continued to teach Toto about the ocean and shared her adventurous stories. Yet, as time flowed on, the inevitable changes of life whispered through the water around them.

One day, as they floated beneath the glow of the aquarium lights, Gloria noticed a slight weariness in her movements. Her once sprightly flippers felt heavy, and she often paused to catch her breath as they swam.

Toto, ever observant, sensed the changes in her beloved friend.

“Gloria, are you ok?” she asked.

“I am just feeling a bit tired, Toto, “ she replied with a gentle smile, though her eyes held a hint of sadness.

“But don’t you worry, I will always be here for you.”

As the seasons turned, Gloria's vitality began to fade. The vibrant stories she once told became softer, her laughter a little quieter.

Toto tried to remain optimistic, cherishing every moment together.

Then came a day when the water felt heavier. Gloria lying on the sandy bottom of their enclosure, her breath shallow.

“Toto, “ she whispered, “it is time for me to journey to the great beyond.”

Toto’s heart sank, panic surging through her.

“No, Gloria! You cannot leave me! You promised you would always be here!”

“I know my little one, “ she said softly, her eyes filled with love.

“But life is a cycle, and my time has come. Remember what we spoke of the balance of the ocean, the respect for every creature’s journey.”

A wave of anguish washed over Toto, drowning her in despair.

“But I cannot imagine a life without you, Gloria! You are my everything.”

“I will always be with you, Toto, “ she reassured her.

“In every ripple of the water, in every gentle current that guides you, I will be there. You have learned so much and now it is your turn to carry on. Share our stories with others and remember the beauty of our bond.”

As the artificial lights dimmed, Toto felt a profound emptiness settle in her heart. She watched as Gloria’s spirit seemed to drift away. The energy of the aquarium wrapped around her, and with a final, loving glance, she slipped into an eternal stillness.

In that moment the world felt unbearable for Toto. The laughter and joy that once filled their days were replaced by a heavy sorrow.

She swam aimlessly, lost in their memories, feeling the weight of Gloria’s absence in every wave that lapped at her shell.

Days turned into weeks, and things became unbearable for Toto. She was crying day and night after her dear friend, and she was feeling entirely lost.

"I miss you dearly, Gloria," said Toto, thinking to herself. "I miss playing hide and seek together. I miss your adventurous stories. I miss your company and our laughs together. I know you had a better dream for me, but I don't know if it will ever come true. I am not sure if I would survive here without you.”

Even if Toto wanted to keep fighting for Gloria with all her heart, her light also diminished. She lost her appetite, and she fell into a deep sadness. She was looking very weak. At times, she would float on the water for hours and hours without any energy left in her body.

Meanwhile, more animals are brought to be kept in captivity. Toto's tank had to be used for other animals, and due to her health conditions later, they decided to give her care to a wildlife biologist.

As fate would have it, a compassionate wildlife biologist named, John entered Toto’s life. With a heart devoted to marine life, John had spent years engaged in various research programmes aimed at enhancing the understanding and conservation of sea turtles. His passion for the ocean began in childhood when he found solace in the company of a beloved turtle, named Mayor. Their bond was unbreakable, until one day when he returned home to find his dear companion lifeless in the water. This heart-wrenching loss ignited a fire within him- a promise to dedicate his life to the study and protection of sea turtles.

During his early years as a wildlife biologist, John was part of a team working on a remote beach known for its sea turtles' nesting grounds. Under the glow of moonlight, he and his colleagues would patrol the shores, searching for newly laid eggs. One night, they discovered a nest that had just hatched, and the tiny hatchlings were making their way to the ocean.

John knelt, his heart swelling with joy as he watched the little turtles struggle against the sand, their tiny flippers flailing in excitement. He gently scooped up a few of the hatchlings that were getting stuck, carefully placing them back on their path to the sea. That moment felt for him like a miracle. Witnessing the start of new lives.

Yet, as he watched them disappear into the waves, he couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability that came with their journey. It struck him how fragile their existence was, especially considering the threats they faced from predators and human activities.

That night he vowed to dedicate himself even more fervently to their protection, ensuring that every turtle had a fighting chance to reach the ocean and thrive.

Now, with Toto in his care, John was determined to make a difference. He approached her tank with a warm smile, his gentle demeanour radiating comfort. He meticulously observed her every movement, documenting her behaviours.

“Once, I had a little friend just like you,” he would say, his voice soft and nostalgic. “He used to swim up and down, welcoming me home from school. Losing him was heartbreaking, and I can’t bear the thought of losing you too, my petite.”

Despite all of John’s efforts, Toto’s health continued to deteriorate. Even though she was now receiving better care in a more comfortable environment, her condition seemed to worsen day by day.

Determined not to give up on her, John dedicated himself even more to Toto’s well-being. He immersed himself in research, consulting experts around the world and exploring innovative treatments. Countless hours were spent observing her behaviour closely in the aquarium, searching for clues that could guide his efforts.

Yet, despite the aquarium’s careful maintenance, it remained a confined space for Toto. Unbeknownst to John, she had begun to lose hope, feeling as though she had nothing left to fight for.

One day, as he wrestled with the thought of her longing for the ocean, he made a bold decision. He transferred Toto to an enormous tank where the glass walls were barely visible. Instantly, her mood brightened; she swam gracefully, exploring her new surroundings with an enthusiasm he hadn’t seen in a long time. In that moment he understood that Toto yearned to be in her natural habitat, a place where she could swim freely and thrive. Fuelled by his insight, he vowed to help her reclaim her freedom.

"I am sorry you have been deprived of your freedom, my petite," whispered to her. “When we lose sight of the higher aims of life, we humans make big mistakes. Knowing better, I have the chance to do better for you. I will set you free, where you belong, and I hope your life in captivity will become a distant memory for you. "

A few days later, John travelled with Toto to Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef where a turtles-only sanctuary had been created. The water in Queensland is a bright, cheerful blue, and the sandy beach is soft and warm. Colourful coral gardens sway gently in the water, and schools of vibrant fish dance around. Every day the sun shines down making everything shiny and beautiful.

After what felt like an eternity, the transport crate she travelled in was opened, and the little creature was greeted by the vast expanse of the open sea. The waves crashed around her, and the salty breeze filled her nostrils. At last, she was home.

"My dear, Gloria,” whispered Toto with tears glistening in her eyes.

“I made it! Our dream came true. I am free. But how will I navigate this vast ocean without you my loved friend?"

And then she remembered what Gloria once said to her:

"When you feel scared and down, remember, dear one, you are an intelligent creature, and you carry within you the resilience to face any challenge that comes your way. "

Toto's eyes sparkled with a newfound sense of freedom, and John couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of fulfilment.

Before her departure, John had installed a small tracking chip on her back, allowing him to monitor her movements and ensure her safety in her natural habitat.

As Toto swam in the open seawater, she felt a sense of liberation she had never experienced before. The ocean's vastness stretched out in front of her, filled with endless possibilities. She glided through the water with grace and agility, her shell glistening under the sunlight.

John watched Toto's every move, documenting her journey and recording important data. He was amazed by her resilience and determination to embrace her newfound freedom. Toto's chip allowed him to track her location and monitor her health, ensuring she adapted well to her natural environment.

But Toto's journey was just the beginning. She was determined to save the ocean and her fellow turtles from the danger of the plastic monster.

As Toto swam deeper into the ocean, she encountered a vibrant world teeming with life. The coral reefs dazzled her, and a school of fish darted around her like shimmering jewels. It was here amidst the beauty of her new home, that she began to forge new friendships.

One sunny morning, while exploring a bustling coral reef, Toto met a spirited young turtle named Stella. Stella had a striking pattern on her shell that resembled a star, and her energy was infectious.

“Hey there! Welcome to the reef! Stella exclaimed, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. “ I have seen you swimming around. You are pretty fast!”

“Thanks! I am still getting used to this freedom. It’s all new and exciting!”

Stella, eager to show Toto the wonders of their home, invited her to explore the nearby kelp forest. As they swam together, Stella shared stories of her journey. She had been raised in a sanctuary after being rescued from a fishing net. Now she was determined to enjoy every moment of her life in the ocean, helping others along the way.

As Toto and Stella grow closer they met another turtle named Finn, a wise and calm sea turtle with a deep connection to the ocean. Finn had lived for many years, witnessing the changes in the sea and understanding the delicate balance of marine life. He became a mentor to both Toto and Stella, sharing his knowledge of the ocean’s ecosystem and the importance of protecting them.

“ Each part of the ocean plays a role in the greater web of life,” Finn explained one day as they rested on a sunlit rock. “From the tiniest plankton to the largest whales, every creature has its place. We must work together to maintain harmony.”

Inspired by Finn’s wisdom, Toto felt a sense of purpose growing within her. She wanted not only to embrace her newfound freedom but also to contribute to the ocean community.

As time passed, Toto and Stella developed a profound bond. Their friendship blossomed, filled with laughter and shared adventures. Together they explored hidden caves, danced in the currents, and basked in the warmth of the sun filtering through the water.

One evening, while watching the sunset paint the ocean in hues of orange and pink, they floated side by side, taking in the breathtaking view.

Toto turned to Stella. “You know, I am grateful to share this experience with you. It feels great to have such a friend by my side.”

“ I feel the same, Toto. I believe in our friendship and admire how you live and embrace every moment.”

As Toto continued to explore the ocean, she also encountered various habitats, each with its unique charm. She ventured into the mesmerising mangroves, where she met a playful dolphin named Echo, who loved to perform acrobatics and teach Toto how to leap through waves. Echo, had grown up in the mangroves, where he had learned the importance of the ecosystem and the role it played in the survival of many species, including turtles.

Then, in the open waters, she encountered a group of sea lions who welcomed her with lively games. Among them was a sea lion named Leo, known for his playful antics and clever tricks. Leo had a knack for storytelling and often entertained the group with tales of his adventures along the coast.

With each new friend, Toto learned more about the ocean’s intricacies and the importance of community. She discovered that together, they could face challenges and celebrate the beauty of their world.

Meanwhile, John continued to keep a watchful eye on Toto’s journey through the tracking chip he had installed. He found joy in receiving updates about her movements and health, each data point was a reminder that she was thriving in her natural habitat.

Together, Toto, Stella, Finn, Echo and Leo formed a tight-knit team, united by a common goal: to explore the ocean depths and identify the dangerous areas where plastic pollution threatened their home. With each new day, they ventured into the vibrant underwater world, scanning the waters for debris and sharing their findings with the other marine creatures.

“Look over there! Stella called one day, pointing to a surface, where bits of plastic bobbed like ominous jellyfish. “We need to spread the word to stay away from that area!”

Toto nodded, her heart heavy with concern. “ Let’s gather everyone and organise a meeting. We can teach the little ones about the dangers of plastic and how to avoid it.”

As they swam through the coral reefs, they gathered young turtles and other sea creatures, sharing stories and demonstrating how to identify harmful debris. They explained that plastic could be mistaken for food and the dire consequences that could follow.

“It’s our responsibility to protect each other,” Finn advised, his voice calm but authoritative. “Knowledge is our strongest weapon against this threat.”

Despite their best efforts, they faced heartbreaking moments. Sometimes, the little ones would fall for the traps set by plastic waste, mistaking it for food.

Toto cringed as she witnessed a hatchling struggling, having consumed a piece of plastic, leading to suffocation and death. Each loss weighed heavily on her heart, fuelling her determination to fight harder for their safety.

Resilient, Toto and her friends made it their mission to regularly check the dangerous areas where plastic accumulated.

Their efforts did not go unnoticed; one day, as they swam near a particularly polluted section of the ocean, Toto felt an inexplicable urge to reach out to John. She knew that if anyone could help, it was him and so she spent the whole night in that area of the ocean.

When John took notice and his team finally arrived to check on the turtle, they were met with a scene of shock and horror. The water was littered with plastic, creating a surreal and distressing sight.

He understood immediately that Toto wanted him to witness the devastation affecting her home.

Without hesitation, John sprang into action, calling the authorities to report the pollution. “We need to mobilise a cleanup effort right away!” he insisted, his heart racing with urgency.

Toto swam close to John, her determination shining through. She had once again proven that even a small creature could make a significant difference when given the chance to thrive in its natural habitat.

John realised that Toto was not just a survivor; she had become an ambassador for her species, spreading awareness about their plight and the importance of protecting their environment.

Inspired by Toto’s bravery and resilience, John shared her story far and wide. He used social media, documentary films, and community workshops to educate people about the harmful effects of plastic pollution and the urgent need for sustainable practices.

Through Toto’s journey, the world began to understand the impact of their actions on marine life. People started to make conscious changes in their daily lives—reducing the use of single-use plastics, participating in beach clean-ups, and advocating for cleaner oceans.

As the movement grew, so did the support from governments and organisations. They collaborated to implement stricter regulations and policies aimed at protecting sea turtles and their habitats. New initiatives were launched to encourage recycling, reduce plastic production, and create cleaner, safer environments for all marine creatures.

Amidst the challenges and heartbreak, a new chapter began for Toto. She found hope, friendship and purpose, forever changing her life. The memory of Gloria remained in her heart, a guiding light as she vowed to carry on their legacy. “No sea turtle should ever have to suffer in captivity again,” she promised herself.

As time passed, Toto became a mother, nurturing her hatchlings and passing on all the love she had once received from her dear friend, Gloria. She taught them the importance of resilience, the beauty of the ocean, and the need to protect their home.

“Embrace the storms, for they will only make you stronger, and cherish the calm, for it’s in those moments that you will find peace,” she would often remind them, echoing Gloria’s wise words.

John, too, found his life intertwined with Toto’s. He continued his research and conservation efforts, dedicating himself to the well-being of sea turtles. His bond with Toto remained strong; he often visited her, watching her swim freely and witnessing the positive impact she had on her fellow turtles.

As Toto watched her hatchlings play under the sun’s rays filtering through the water, she felt a profound sense of fulfilment. She knew that they were not just her offspring; they were the hope for a better tomorrow—a tomorrow where turtles could thrive, free from the threats of pollution and captivity. And in that moment, Toto understood that she was living out the legacy of love and courage that Gloria had instilled in her, ready to face whatever storms lay ahead.