Truth, Respect and Swimming

I grew up as a first generation Mexican-American raised solidly in the American dream.  My father became a citizen during WWII where he served on PT Boat 129.  (President Kennedy's PT boat was 109).   What I hope to bring to swimming is truth..my truths.  For my experience and truth is truly all I have to share. 

 

But what has this to do with swimming?

 

My father taught me that respect was the basis for all we do.  When my swimmer's come on deck, before they touch the water, they must begin to understand the importance of respect to others, beginning with respect to themselves. So I provide the proper suit, cap and goggles before we begin.   Too often a child responds with a shake of a head when asked a question accompanied by a noise that sounds like "huh" or "yeah" which I find unacceptable.   

 

But what does this have to do with swimming?

 

It is not enough to save a life from drowning.  I mean really.  We are better then that!  Water skills should be the least we can provide.  In fact there are probably many other sources like the YMCA, Boys Club, etc. who can do it much better then me. To me water is only a vehicle by which we try to get their attention, to show success, to gain trust, to show we care. 

 

But what about SWIMMING? 

 

We teach them to swim but what about making it through the day?  The parents of my swimmers work hard in their jobs and provide the best that they ca.  My swimmers must learn to cope, to thrive, to flourish.  Some kids are bilingual, some are not, but all are multicultural in a real sense of the word.  As Latino's, by definition, they are subject to the definition of others.  So they must learn about respect, how to shake hands, how to look a person in the face when being addressed. 

 

…and when they can go underwater for the first time then they can believe they can learn to memorize their time tables.  When they make it across the pool for the first time they may understand they can continue to concentrate in the class room despite understanding low expectations. 

With me they understand that I expect and receive the best they have to give. 

When I ask them to try something for the first time they know I know it is something they can do. 

So, when I ask if they are going to go to college they know it is not a question, but an expectation they can reach, a dream that can be satisfied because it is expected.  An expectation that begins by trusting they can be in the water and survive.

 

It is about swimming and it is about the truth in life.

 

 I expect them to work hard, I expect them to dream.  Dreams cannot be taken away and can begin in the water.   My swimmers must understand the importance of "please" and "thank you" and of mentors to ensure their future.  I believe it is about trusting in the very American values exhibited in each of my families, many of whom are not even from North America.  My truth is education, respect and the belief and realization of dreams.  Dreams that all begin in the water.      Nadar Por Vida –Affecting Lives One Bubble at a Time!