"Are you okay?" called his dad. "I'm just a little tired," said Jabari.
"Maybe you should climb down and take a tiny rest," said his dad.
A tiny rest sounded like a good idea."
It's time! Jabari has everything he needs for the big day. He passed his swimming lessons. He's wearing his swim trunks. His eyes have protective goggles. He know he can jump. And, he's not scared. Or is he?
Jabari seems unconcerned as he and his dad check the pool, the diving board, and even the height of the ladder. He appreciates his dad's firm clasp of his hand, and the lack of pressure to do what he has planned to do. Dad even offers an out, suggesting a rest as he climbs the ladder, and the opportunity to wait until tomorrow.
Jabari is apprehensive, but determined. His father reacts perfectly:
"It's okay to feel a little scared," said his dad. "Sometimes,
if I feel a little scared, I take a deep breath and tell myself
I am ready. And you know what? Sometimes it stops
feeling scary and feels like a little surprise."
What little boy doesn't love surprises? It is exactly what Jabari needs to hear. Up the ladder, off the board, a big SPLASH! and back for more. What a day! Overcoming a fear seems easier to do when a parent has your back, offering up whatever you might need to face the fear and accomplish what you set out to do.
Impressive summer images were created in pencil, watercolor and collage, and then colored digitally. Changing perspectives are effective in understanding the fear felt, as well as the support given. While swimmers will no longer be using outdoor pools in many places, the thrill of a new accomplishment is not diminished when achieved at an indoor one. Both venues provide an opportunity for water fun and frolic.
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