The Swim

I like to walk beside the sea I find that it relaxes me That is, until I decide To take a plunge into the tide This comes after careful thought (It's taken much longer than it ought) It looks inviting but.... is the water icy? I bet it is. Probably. Yes, definitely. Dicey. I keep on dithering what to do It's clouded over now and not so blue Should I get in oh-so-slowly, bit by bit Or just dive in and get it over with? I don't want to look like I'm not brave Stifling screams I wade into the waves Now soaking wet and hair unflattering I'm shivering and my teeth are chattering I stagger out, puffed with pride It was worth the angst and I survived I remember the old saying now, and grin ... 'It's all right - once you're in'