Pool Party captures a moment of childhood that blurs joy and danger, belonging and risk. Based on a close near-drowning at a birthday party experience, the image becomes a visual metaphor for the emotional cost of social acceptance.

The outstretched hand floats in a pool of chlorinated blue, suggestive of innocence, but it hovers just below the surface, suspended between participation and panic. The gesture hints at both reaching for connection and slipping away from safety.

This work speaks to a universal tension: the desire to be included, even when it puts our well-being at risk. Pool Party reminds us that pressure to fit in often starts early, and that the impact of those moments can ripple through our lives long after we’ve left the water.

Reflection

We all want to be seen, to be part of something bigger than ourselves. But sometimes the pull of belonging can carry us farther than we meant to go, into deep waters where our safety, our identity, even our peace is compromised.

In Pool Party, the water is both memory and metaphor. It’s the pull of community, but also the silence of fear. In that sinking moment, we’re reminded that not everyone who stands poolside will reach out to help, and not every crowd is worth drowning for.

But God never leaves us to go under. Even when we’re in over our heads, He sees. He knows the pressure, the desire to be included, and the moments we ignore His warnings just to feel close to others. He’s the hand that reaches in, not to scold, but to save.

“Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.”  Psalm 37:24

Reflection Question

Where have you been ignoring God’s voice just to stay included, and is He calling you to step out of the water and trust Him instead?