The Compass

Latin phrase gives insights into discipleship — and swimming classes

When I was little, my parents thought I should take swimming lessons. One of the lessons involved diving into the deep end of the pool. No, not jumping in while holding your nose, but diving in headfirst with your hands joined over your head.

I hated it. The chlorinated water rushed up my nose and nearly choked me. I gulped water. I thought I was drowning. I made it up to the air, but couldn’t find the edge of the pool because water was in my eyes.