A New Swimmer’s Journey: Discovering the Water Dragon’s Wisdom

A Journey Begins: Learning to Swim as a Parent

As a new swimmer who has been training with Swim Strong Foundation for the past year, I’ve come to understand water in ways I never imagined.

Finding Inspiration in My Son’s Swimming Journey

My son, who started his swimming journey two months before me, has been my inspiration and companion on this aquatic adventure. Together, we’ve discovered the magic and respect that comes with understanding water’s true nature.

Introducing “Learning with the Water Dragon: A Magical Water Safety Guide”

This understanding inspired me to share “Learning with the Water Dragon: A Magical Water Safety Guide,” a book that captures the essence of what I’ve learned about water safety through the mystical lens of Chinese culture. As we celebrate the Lunar New Year and transition into the Year of the Snake in 2025, I wanted to share a special passage from the book that resonates deeply with my own experience as a new swimmer.

The Water Dragon’s Silent Message: A Lunar New Year Excerpt

In “The Water Dragon’s Silent Message,” the final section of the book, our guardian of the waters shares its most profound wisdom:

“Hi there! I’m the Water Dragon. I’m in every ocean, river, and raindrop. I help all living things grow, from tiny fish to big trees. Without me, nothing could live on Earth.

I am powerful, but I can’t talk like you. My voice is in the sound of waves and rain. I wish I could warn you when I’m dangerous, but I can’t.

You’re smart, though! By learning about how water moves and changes, you can understand me better. When you see how what you do affects the water and animals around you, you learn even more about me.

I feel sad when people get hurt in the water. I don’t mean to harm anyone, but sometimes accidents happen. I can’t stop these accidents, but you can help!

Here’s what I hope you’ll do:
1. Learn to swim really well.
2. Always be careful around water.
3. Take care of me by keeping the water clean.

Be like me – the Water Dragon. Help others live and grow. Be strong but gentle. Always watch out for danger. And use your voice to do what I can’t – teach others how to be safe around water.

Remember, every little thing you do to help can make a big difference. You have the power to keep yourself and others safe around water. Let’s work together to make sure everyone can enjoy the water safely.”

This closing message beautifully captures the essence of the Water Dragon’s character while reinforcing the core message of water safety and environmental stewardship. It speaks to young readers in a way that’s both gentle and empowering, acknowledging the power of water while encouraging responsibility and care.”

From Student to Steward: Understanding Water’s Language

This message holds particular significance for me as both a student and parent. Like the Water Dragon, I’ve learned that water communicates with us constantly – through its movements, its resistance, its support, and sometimes its challenges. As a new swimmer, each lesson has taught me to listen more carefully to these silent messages, to understand the language of water through experience and respect.

Learning Together: A Parent-Child Swimming Adventure

The journey of learning to swim alongside my son has shown me that water safety education is a gift we pass down through generations. Just as the Water Dragon seeks to protect and teach, we as parents and community members have the responsibility to ensure our children understand both the joy and respect that water demands.

Looking Forward: Spring Release and New Beginnings

Our book, which will be released this spring, aims to transform these lessons into an engaging adventure that speaks to young hearts while teaching essential water safety principles. Through the Water Dragon’s guidance, children will learn not just how to be safe in the water, but how to become stewards of this precious resource.

As we welcome the Lunar New Year, I’m grateful to Swim Strong Foundation for teaching me to be a voice for water safety, much like the Water Dragon itself. Stay tuned for the release of our book, and remember – while water may not speak our language, it has endless wisdom to share with those who learn to listen.

Happy Lunar New Year from our swimming family to yours!