As you swim through the ocean of joy and despair we call life,
You’ll meet all kinds of people, both friend and foe.
As you struggle in this sea, you might see some who just glance,
They’ll judge from afar, missing your challenging dance.
They may spot you gliding or performing a graceful stroke,
And think, “What a swimmer, born with natural talent.”
But only you know the times you’ve choked and gasped for air,
Only you feel the weight tied to your feet, the burden you bear.
You’ve read and you’ve learned, you’ve fought to stay afloat,
Only you know the battles, the struggles you tote.
Some brave souls might lend a hand to pull you out for a while,
You might wander the shore and rest with a smile.
Yet you’ll return to your ocean, the one you must face,
And continue your journey with resilience and grace.
Some might dive into your sea, to see and to share,
They’ll offer you a buoy, showing how much they care.
But you must swim to that buoy, with all of your might,
Struggling through waves, finding strength in the fight.
Beware of those who judge from the edge of your plight,
They might say, “The water’s not that deep” or “Swim faster, get it right!”
They may not grasp the depth of the ocean you tread,
Or see the turbulent currents that you’re fighting against.
In your ocean, you’ll find gems and pearls shining bright,
Stop and marvel at their beauty, Do not let panic cloud your sight.
Calm your thoughts and your breath, keep your strokes steady and true,
For the waves may push and pull, but they’ll guide you through.
Your ocean is yours, with your lifeboat you build,
Your stamina is what you gain.
Do not fret about the distance or the time you must swim,
For the greatest gift of all is that one day, you will finally get to rest …at that BOTTOM OF THE OCEAN.
