My Life

The cold water enveloped me like a cloud as I drifted downward.  I don't remember feeling fear.  I looked up and saw the bright light of the Miami sun.  Then I saw a long arm reaching down to me..and felt a sharp tug under my arm.  This memory is as clear to me today, as if it had happened yesterday.  I did not cry.  I was four years old.  The arm belonged to my father.  This was the first and last time my father was my hero.