Home » Poems » Gordon Mcconnell » Coordinate, Breath and Concentrate Oh No

Coordinate, Breath and Concentrate Oh No

Having learned to swim fairly late on
be about my early 30s that are in age
I had a fright with water at preschool
being thrown into water made me real rage

So when I did learn to really swim
a major problem hid me right face on
I had a stammer from very early in life
causing coordination probs now drawn

Learning to swim meant good coordination
this I didn't have as well as concentrate
cause in the swim I couldn't do them all
never impressed the girls so never got a date

Also remembering to breath caused a stir
whether on backstroke front or crawl
it just didn't make difference at all
this was one sport I was unmoved to stall

So all these years now gone by
I never was able to swim well
make sure you don't need rescuing
for I would be stuck in my shell

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Carolyn Devonshire

Date: 10/24/2018 2:47:00 PM

Gordon, we all have imperfections and traumatic experiences that cannot be altered, but still we struggle throughout our lives trying to conquer them. Perhaps writing this touching poem helped you release some of the angst that has built up. My late aunt taught all the lifeguards on the Jersey shore and I think, using some of the methods she employed, I could help you overcome your fear of water. Bet the stammer lessens when you are very relaxed. You're not too old to learn swimming. Hugs

Gordon Mcconnell
Date: 10/24/2018 3:03:00 PM

Thanks, Carolyn, The water problem is nothing like it used to be and yes the stammer lessons when I'm relaxed. Thanks for the offer but it's not too much of a handicap now whether I swim or not doesn't bother me and I'm over in Scotland, I take it you're in the USA. Thanks again , have a great day, Gordon

Ann Gilmour

Date: 10/23/2018 6:02:00 AM

Such a touching, expressive poem Gordon, I felt I was with you on that journey, and you did it! I myself did not swim until I was 40 and living on the coast this was a real handicap. Kindest thoughts to you Gordon x

Gordon Mcconnell
Date: 10/23/2018 6:47:00 AM

thanks Ann, Glad you enjoyed it so much and felt you were there on my journey, Have blessed day, Gordon