Swim

Of the three pools that Mo and I usually use, one is closed for the winter, one is undergoing maintence this week and one no longer has "open swims" at a time that makes sense for us.

Today we had to find a new pool, maybe for just this once.

After searching the parks and recreation web site I found a pool not far from our house and off we went, exercise and recreation being an important part of our days.

You could tell right away that this wasn't a popular pool. The green echoing light and the silence let you know right away that people were not using this pool, at least not using this pool with the madness and young verve of the other park department pools.

We changed and showered and entered the pool area to find that it was indeed being used after all.

And old man swam in slow, relaxed laps, guided by his companion, perhaps his wife, someone who clearly loved him. His wheelchair was parked by the pool's edge, near the swim lift, evidence of illness or age but I'd seen his stare before coming from my father eyes, and I knew it was more than that. They smiled at Mo and spoke softly to one another. She whispered encouragement to him and he began another lap.

I knew this was the easiest part of her day.

I've had a strange meloncholy settle over me today from witnessing such tenderness.

I know I'll use that pool again, maybe for just that feeling once more.