Apparently at the World Championships in Budapest, USA’s two-time Olympian, Anita Alvarez finished her first solo routine, passed out and sank to the bottom of the pool. USA’s head coach, Andrea Fuentes noticed that she was under far too long.

So, the coach, fully clothed, immediately dove in and pulled Anita to safety. She was unconscious and had no ability to swim, kick, or paddle to help herself in any way. She desperately needed someone to pull her to the surface and administer first aid.

Had Coach Fuentes not noticed Anita on the bottom of the pool, she would have drown.

But here is the thing. This coach knew her team members. She knew what to watch for. She was able to quickly notice when Anita was under too long and responded without a thought.

This story resonated with me. I am wondering who in my life (our yours) knows us well enough to determine when we have been “under too long.” Who do we have in our lives that has spent enough time with us to know when we are “going under for the last count.” Who is acquainted with our personal lives and can tell when we need help?

Proverbs 18:24 says that “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

This week might be a grand opportunity to begin building a few relationships that can “stick closer than a brother.” Those friendships take time and effort to develop. But they are priceless.

And if you are already blessed to have such a close and caring friend, make sure and thank them for watching out for you. Be grateful when they notice that something isn’t right. Consider their counsel and take their advice if you find yourself mentally, emotionally or spiritually “off.”

Even though summer is here, none of us want to languish at the bottom of the pool (so to speak). Let’s thank God for those who will dive in for us!