The water is cold but oh so exhilarating! I took my first lake swim this weekend and I must admit I did not stay in long. Yesterday, I put my toes in and then changed my mind about diving in but then tried again after Emma's "just dive in" prodding and it was so refreshing. I didn't even notice the cold after a short while, the sun was shining on my face and the water was a bit wavy but I was totally immersed in the moment.
My daughter Emma and her friend Lily decided that a running start is the only way to get into the cold water. The shock of the cold is not long-lived. Easing into the cold water just prolongs the adjustment period. I think this is often true in life too, when we are facing very big changes it is best just to dive in.
We are moving our home base very soon and the little changes along the way, like selling the house our children grew up in, changing schools and mostly the thought of leaving good friends has been challenging. Moving away and moving on does not mean leaving behind all that is dear to us. We will take our memories with us and I know our good friends will stay connected by phone, email and of course as house guests and traveling partners to Chicago and beyond.
Again, I will follow Emma's lead and "just dive in" because she has had the most positive and steadfast attitude about moving from the start. I also started in a brand new high school at her age and attended college in two new states and also lived in the southwest after college too. I have become complacent and so that means it must be time for a new adventure. I guess the cold water was an awakening of sorts. Follow my lead and just "dive in"; it is freeing and you will adjust to the water.
Fabulous post, Elaine. I have always been a "jump right in," hair wet and all kind of girl when it comes to swimming in a lake. I need to expand that way of thinking to life more often. Over-thinking is highly overrated! :)
Posted by: Lauri.dailey@gmail.com | July 13, 2011 at 09:36 AM