I’ve returned to aquatic therapy at a local hospital. I must say I always leave there feeling good, yet a little out of place maybe? For example, I’m probably the youngest person in the group, yet one of the most disabled too. This gets me a little down. Again, only my husband experiences my misplaced frustration.

“Will you please just wheel me over there, please?” I snarled.

Today, instead of using the chair lift, I insisted on being wheeled closer to the steps leading directly into the pool. This would allow me to walk directly into the pool. It’s important to note that I can’t really walk that well. Thus, the chair lift is safer. I know this. But sometimes I just want to do what I want to do. He pushed me to the steps. Helped me up, then proceeded to leave the area. He normally leaves, but I couldn’t help but wonder if he was a little aggravated.

Swimming Pool Steps

Anyway, the chair lift gently and safely lowers me in the water. It’s not bad, but boy did it feel good inching down those steps! Now, I was holding the rail for dear life, but the class even cheered me on! It was a little victory. Today I’m going to choose to focus on that.

Being in the pool gives me authentic happiness.

I’ve blogged about my pool therapy more than once. Apparently, I must really like the water! Or maybe it gives me some sort of satisfaction or joy perhaps? After all, I’m no longer going to physical therapy due to insurance issues. In turn, my visits to the gym are of monumental importance to me. I’m inside a lot. As a matter of fact, I often feel socially isolated. I wonder if my caregiver, my husband, does too?

My point is the pool makes me feel happy, but it’s probably fleeting. “Transitory happiness brings momentary pleasure but enduring or “authentic” happiness, as positive psychologist Martin Seligman calls it, manifests as deep satisfaction with how you live your life.”

That’s what I want.