by any means necessary

Today I managed what I'm calling a "Malcolm X swim"...

I got through a bit more than a half mile, but did so in a very cobbled-together way. The triathlon I'm training for requires a half-mile open water swim in the ocean and only wetsuits & goggles are permitted. Today I used a mask & snorkel for a big part of it and a kick board for a few of the lengths - I feel like I just need to build the muscle memory & confidence before I worry about the breathing even though I technically know how to breath & swim now. I took a few very short rests, knowing that I will be able to rest if needed on the big day. I reminded myself that I will be a stronger swimmer, have adrenaline on my side and be more buoyant in a wetsuit and salt water when it counts.

But I did it & it wasn't bad. I did sort of get into a groove. I tried to make it meditative and appreciate the view through the water - the woman next to me was a really excellent swimmer so I sort of kept an eye on her progress. Mostly I just counted.