Watching my kiddo’s excitement to be back at the pool, I was reminded of his first foray into this same water back in 2011.

For a few days in high summer we have access to a pool. Two year old M is drawn to the “deep water” yet refuses to go in. While the grownups swim laps or splash from nearby, he sits on the side. “No go in today.”

Our last day, I finally coax him in. He leans into my hands and I swing him over the pool, toes barely trailing in the water. Then he grabs for the ladder back to the edge, reiterating his catchphrase. “No go in today.”

I’d like to claim mother’s persuasion, but it’s equally my own limited arm strength that lowers him bit by bit into the water. Ankles. Knees. Suit is wet. Now belly button, ribs, chest. Each jump lower, smile broader. Each punctuated with the refrain, “No go in today.”

I wonder how often I follow the same tack. Words say one thing, actions another. Mind is convinced I can’t do something, body has another idea. Spirit calls in one direction, mind dismisses, “No go in today.”

I wonder what new discoveries are in store when I surrender mind to body. Trust the wisdom of my body and the spirit who calls it home. Immerse myself. Risk going below the surface, on the mat, and in life beyond the mat.

Come on in, the water’s wonder-ful!

First posted September 2011