Some students take Adaptive Physical Education classes to go swimming, some to work out with weights and do aerobics. Some come for yoga. But almost everyone enjoys the social aspects of the Program.
Since the very beginning of Adaptive P.E. at College of Marin, the social side of the life of the students has been important. Besides the parties and picnics, everyone has been encouraged to participate -- aides, teachers and students, all for one and one for all. This is a truly classless society.
The ritual joke before yoga loosens us up. Good or bad, we all enjoy. Sitting at the benches beside the pool and gossiping, men and women, students and teachers alike, laughing, speaking seriously or relating some news, everyone enjoys.
Lunch hour, we gather in small groups and talk and share and laugh, as we do most of the school day. In or out of the pool, laying on the mats, on a table getting a massage or working out in the weight room, nothing seems to dampen the spirits of our intrepid exercisers.
In charge of the program, Jessica Naythons has ample opportunity to show her authority, but I have never seen her do so. She is an example of yoga charm and wisdom. With a sense of humor and innate kindness, her spirit sets the tone of the happy kingdom.
As a longtime student, I want to take this opportunity to doff my Greek fisherman's cap in a gesture of gratitude for all the help, love and patience extended to me by all the members of the staff over the years.
And, in particular, my thanks go to Fermin Martinez, who always is willing to take me in the pool, even on very cold days.
Many physically disabled persons live alone, by choice or by necessity. Some of us are restricted in our ability to get out and make friends simply because we lack a place to go and a way to get there.
College of Marin is the place, and Whistlestop Wheels will take you there.