In May of 1999, my family was in Destin, Florida, for vacation. It was a hot, sunny day. My oldest sister, Grace, and I were playing with some friends in the Gulf of Mexico. I suddenly looked back and saw we were far from the beach. I said, "Let’s go back!"

We tried to swim back, but we were in a riptide. We kept trying to get to the shore, but it was all in vain. The waves pushed us farther into the ocean. I’ve never been so frightened in my life. We screamed and shouted for help, then a humongous wave washed over my head. I swallowed some salt water. Then I saw my dad!

I couldn’t reach him, but he got ahold of my hand. Everyone made it back safely. I can still feel the warm sand on my feet. Later a lifeguard told us what to do if we ever get stuck in a riptide again.

He said: 1. Don’t panic. 2. Let someone know you’re in trouble. 3. Swim to the side in order to get out of the riptide, then the waves will help push you to shore.

I’m so happy my dad was there to help us. God protected me, and I hope this story will help others to be safe in the ocean.

Ben, 9
Ohio

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