The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27

Dad could swim. Julie and Margaret could swim. Even five-year old Bobby could doggie-paddle without help. The whole family could swim - except Mom.

'We'll teach you to swim,' Bobby said. 'Daddy will hold you up and we'll show you how to do it.' Julie and Margaret nodded agreement.

'Okay,' Mom agreed. 'I want to learn before we go to Hawaii for holidays. I don't want to sit on the beach watching you cool off in the ocean.'

At the local swimming pool, Mom tried to swim. 'When I lift my feet, my body starts to go under the water,' she complained.

'Let me help,' Dad said. He put his arms under Mom's body. 'Lie flat on the water.' With Dad's arms supporting her, Mom stretched out her body. 'Now, kick your legs softly. And move your arms.'

'Good job, Mom,' Julie cried.

'You can do it, Mom,' Margaret called.

'Move your hands and feet like a doggie, Mom,' Bobby said. 'That's how I do it.'

'I - I can't,' Mom gasped. 'I'll sink.'

'No you won't, dear,' Dad said. 'My arms are underneath. I won't let you sink.'

It took more than one try, but Mom finally learned to swim. And the whole family enjoyed swimming in Hawaii.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You that Your strong arms always hold me up. Amen.