Monday, April 23, 2007

Fear

"If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." - Marcus Arelius

Deep into a peak block of training (simulating racing conditions), Robyn faced a big fear this weekend: OPEN WATER. As a tri newbie, she's only raced in pools up until now. However, since the next race of the season will put her in a lake for the first time, Coach Sage astutely suggested that we give the big, dark, choppy water a try before the start gun goes off in two weeks. And, surprise, surprise, it was not nearly the terrifying adventure Robyn has been anticipating. Those yards in the pool focusing on breath and form really do pay off - especially when the environment is constantly changing.

Facing fears in a changing environment is something we know the families living at Genesis Home also learn to manage. Whether it's going back to school when one's previous school experiences have not been successful or choosing to remain sober or going on a job interview, taking that first step - that first plunge - is often the scariest part. It all seems simple - and maybe even fun - from there.