This nagging feeling that I was unprepared and out of place took a long time to subside.

I offered them a week's waterfront lodging, a ride around the island with a friendly lobsterman who'd give them a chance to steer the boat and haul a few traps, breakfast at Surfside, lunch and dinner at whichever of the two island venues interested them,...

I know he was being territorial, but I like to imagine it as avian curiosity about our human world.

What is the value of a fishing permit when the 18 stocks on that permit are in various states of collapse or rebuilding?

The comment was poignant, maybe reflecting resignation, maybe reflecting sadness. A native of Lubec, speaking about the changes she's seen since her days working in a sardine packing plant ended years ago, described a community where she no longer knows most everyone.

Editor's note: Reflections is a monthly column written by Island Fellows, recent college grads who do community service work on Maine islands through the Island Institute, publisher of The Working Waterfront, and AmeriCorps.

Eastport's downtown has improved dramatically over the past ten years. Investment from both locals and seasonal residents has resulted in attractive downtown with historic buildings and appealing shops. But we need the state's help in promoting our area.

My sins included being late, getting heat exhaustion in the grasshopper room, inadequately cleaning cage screens…

He watches his point of reference on the pier and decides he’s going too far forward too fast.