Learning to Swim
© June 20, 2017 Bob Anderson
From: Painter

All those times you've been forsaken, lost far from your dreams
You want to run away, but there's no place to stay
So you just want to scream
And hope that one day you will be redeemed

When the storm clouds threaten and you need to see the light
Reach above it all, pull yourself up straight and tall
Get up over your plight
After the torrent follow the rainbow that's in sight

    Old enough to know better, but young enough to foresee
    I may not yet be perfect, but I'm me --
    Learning to swim free

Sister can you use some comfort? You seem lost in despair
You can lean on me, look inside and see, know I really care
Yes sometimes life seems so goddamned unfair

Brother you hide your sorrow, but I can see it in your eyes
The world has beat you down, won't even let you frown
You got to hide to cry!
Please take my hand and know you have an ally

    Test the waters of the ocean; avoid calamity
    I may not yet be perfect, but I'm me
    Learning to swim free

        After the flood has come and gone
        You're drenched, yet somehow more strong
        Open up your crown, paddle toward the sun
        Don't stop now, keep pushing on
        It's just a pond!

In the fires of creation our passions burn so strong
And when it's through relief washes over you
And you feel awesome!
Rebirth comes when you find where you belong

So in the end there're only choices and the karma that you made
It may take more, than one life before you truly awake
Many lives grant you all the time you need to take

    Listen to the birds sing sweetly, bringin' on the dawn
    Reminding us to keep on working and to swim along
    Illusions always hide inside the things we think are real
    The answers always change 'cuz the questions are concealed

    Learning to swim in the sea of agony
    Breaststroke and back crawl will finally set you free
    Life's a short, crazy trip, and I hope the final ride
    Keep on swimming, babe, and I'll see you on the other side