The Minnow and the High Dive

He was not the youngest but he was the runt of the Minnows beginning swim class. While many of the Minnows stuck out half way above the water in the deep end of the kiddie pool, Weston was up to his armpits. He stood a measly 3 feet, 6 inches tall. In fact, he'd always been on the small side, following the 5th percentile growth curve for most of his life. He caused his Mother to worry and fret constantly about how much he was eating. Here though, frolicking in the highly chlorinated public pool water, it was not size that mattered, it was heart. And that he had indeed.

The Minnows swim class was to end after 2 weeks of daily swim sessions. The last day was deemed Friday Fun Day. With guidance from an instructor, the Minnows could visit the big pool and even attempt the diving boards. Little Weston had his heart set on the high dive. He'd mastered going underwater and bobs and even the ominous back float. Today was the day he would jump off the high dive.

He donned a smiley-face-yellow life jacket. First, his instructor stood on the lower diving board and assisted as 2 Minnows gave it a try. Weston sprung off the edge and splashed into the shimmering water. But he craved more. The little man was scared of no thing and was bound and determined to show that to everyone at the pool. No other Minnow thought to attempt such a daring feat as the high dive. They looked on in awe from the kiddie pool.

His little hands pulled his little body up rung by rung. He grinned at the top. Here he was on top of the world! Here is where he towered over the people. Without hesitation, Weston marched forward. He took one look over the edge and where most Minnows might pause with fear, he plunged over the end of the board and made a not-so-small splash in the water below. His eyes gleamed with pleasure as he swam to the side. He'd done it! He was the only minnow to conquer the high dive.

We're so proud of the kid. He's feisty and fearless. If people tell him what he can't do, it motivates him to try harder. Always remember my little Minnow, look before you leap but when the water's nice you jump right in and show 'em how it's done!