Generations

I find that staying active is having a beneficial effect. I feel better. I move better. I am enjoying the companionship of interesting and compassionate people in the pool. My class I attend has participants for the age of 54 to 90. I am amazed at see how active some of the people are well into their 80's and even 90. They have survived cancer, knee and hip replacements, back surgeries, and the ups and downs of life. They have a very positive attitude. Staying active helps the mind and the body. They are an amazing and inspiring group.

As we water-walk in the deep end of the pool, I look to the shallow end and see the other end of the spectrum. The swim babies and toddlers classes are taking place. Now we have from six months to 90 together enjoying the water. I look at the perfect skin and exuberance of the little ones and I think about how quickly we pass through the stages of life. Seeing the future meeting the past in the pool gives me joy.

There may be more wrinkles and scars in the deep end but there is a joy and delight similar to the little ones. When you reach a certain age you begin to appreciate each day and every joy it brings. There is smiling, conversation and laughter in the deep while in the shallow end squeals of delight ring out. The very young and the older swimmers both seem to appreciate the day equally as well.