This summer has been different from most. Mainly because I’ve spent more time by the water than I have in years.
In years past—especially since moving to Philly, which can feel a little landlocked—that hasn’t been the case. And there have been consequences. I become angrier. More bitter. And, worst of all, resentful.
I knew this summer I had to make a different choice. Mostly for everyone around me, but especially for Matt, who tends to get the brunt of my woes.
So…we joined a pool.
A pool in the suburbs, no less.
Once my city-loving heart got over feeling like a sellout, I surrendered. I let myself laze poolside with a book. I took quick midday dunks and midday naps. I floated around doing absolutely nothing.
And wouldn’t you know…I felt fabulous.
There must be a reason we humans are so drawn to water.
We seek it when we’re celebrating. When we’re grieving. When we need relief. When we simply need to remember ourselves.
We’re made of water—or, depending on your age and sex, somewhere around sixty-ish percent. (I wasn’t going to look that up…until I absolutely had to.)
Before we ever took our first breath, we floated in it. We grew tiny arm buds while suspended in our parent’s womb, soothed by the rhythmic whoosh and shoosh of their body long before we ever knew language.
Water rinses away the grit of a long day. It carries tears. It quenches thirst. Sometimes all it asks of us is to climb in and let it hold us for a little while.
Maybe that’s why, in the thick heat of summer, we instinctively head toward it.
The ocean. A lake. A river. Even an Olympic-sized swimming pool (just remember to wash the chlorine off afterward).
The last time I was at the ocean, I found myself mesmerized by how quickly she changed. One moment glassy and calm. Hours later, wild and moody. She never apologized for either version of herself.
So above, so below.
Me too.
One of my favorite quotes says:
“The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.”
Because this summer, water has been exactly what I needed.
And maybe that’s why I believe it to be entirely true.
I hope, before the season slips away, you find your way to some too.
Make a big splash and move with love.
Big hugs,
Holly
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