Find a way…forging through the impossible

On her fifth attempt to swim from Cuba to Florida, endurance swimmer Diana Nyad became the first person to complete the 100-mile swim. She was 64 years old at the time. She swam it without a shark cage. There were many obstacles along the way: jellyfish; cold water that could paralyze you almost as much as the jellyfish; dark waters; and extremely rough seas. What kind of shape was she in after completing the 100-mile crucible? Picture a face swollen and sunburned and speech slurred. And picture someone who, after five attempts, completed what she set out to do. The reality of this journey? “With all the experience I have, especially in this ocean, I never knew I would suffer the way I did.” What kept her going? What kept her able to endure this pain? Her mantra. She continuously kept a mantra in her head the entire time: “Find a way”. She said this over and over until she had made it. Recently some of my “teammates” and I have been helping some people who need assistance. Every day presents a new challenge. Doubt sets in as to if we are on the right path, doing the right thing, and how can we be of more help. Then I read a blurb about Diana Nyad completing the 100-mile ocean swim in 2013 and her mantra that guided her through the tough waters. Later, in the airport bookstore, I saw a book with a swimmer on the cover, arms stretched overhead victory style. The book? Find a Way: The Inspiring Story of One Woman’s Pursuit of a Lifelong Dream by Diana Nyad. When you see a sign… That was what I needed. A little nudge You may be in rough waters right now. Don’t give up. Frustration may be surrounding you like jellyfish. Keep moving forward. Whatever it is for you... Find a way…