Max has had swim lessons every summer for three years. Max still refused to try to swim without a floatie.

Then we came to Hot Springs, where there is a pool at my mom’s condo. We swim every day.

Max can swim.

It’s like seeing your child finally become potty trained after forever coaxing and cajoling him. I’m so proud.

First he started by swimming in the shallow end. Then he tried my goggles and liked them, so he decided it would be okay to put his face in the water. Now he tries swimming with his face under water.

Every day is a brave new adventure for my little swimmyfish. I couldn’t be prouder. While I’m going through my own turbulent times, it gives me courage to see such a shy and sensitive kid, one who hesitates before taking a step, embrace swimming with such vigor.

It gives me hope that I can tackle the unknown, the dark and winding path I have ahead of me. If he can put aside his fears, can’t I?