Keep Your Head Above Water

If you encounter a body of water,

here's what you do:

You approach or walk away,

the choice is up to you.

If you slip and fall in,

follow these instructions:

Don't flail your arms or claw at air,

these motions are just obstructions.

If you wish to remain afloat,

calm your breathing and listen close:

Make slow, deliberate movements,

keep your head up, especially your mouth and nose.

If you find yourself uncertain or panicked,

never fear, there are other solutions:

Roll onto your back and make like an otter,

their floatation skills a feat of evolution.

If you find the otter hard to copy,

there is another animal you can try:

Flip onto your belly and paddle like a dog,

guaranteed to help keep your hair a little more dry.

If the tide starts to sweep you out to sea,

steady your heart and hear my words:

Swim parallel to the shoreline, save your energy,

focus on the sounds of playful gulls and shorebirds.

If a large wave threatens to beach you,

focus and read my lips:

Hold your breath and swim under the wall of water,

avoiding the thunderous crash of its dips.

If you find yourself back on land,

take a moment and let it sink in:

Despite your fear and the chaos you endured,

you're still standing, stronger than you've ever been.