The sparkling stretch of blue that lies ahead,
brings sudden shivers up through the young girl.
She closes her eyes, remembers what coach said.
A toe breaks the surface and makes a swirl
in the water. It retracts from the cold.
She turns and is met by a smile; father.
She sucks in a deep breath; Time to be bold.
A quick leap and her face meets the water.
The cold shocks her senses and pricks her skin.
Fright creeps in her eyes, but joy relieves her.
Nothing beats new strength that’s been found within.
She lays her head back and glides on either side.
And from the side, father basks in his pride.