Topless In Vienna

I remember being at a city pool in Vienna

Most all of the women were topless 

All shapes and sizes were welcome

It seemed so “normal”

So I laid down my towel on the grass and removed my bikini top

Trying to relax in my toplessness, feeling very American and alone

Suddenly, a loud announcement came over a speaker, in German

Women started getting up to go into the pool

I decided to join them

Feeling awkward and naked, I made my way to the pool

It was a water aerobics class! 

I had no idea what was being said

But I watched the teacher and followed along

Then everyone started forming a big circle and someone grabbed my hand

We started moving in the circle laughing and the women were yelling in German,

They never let go of my hands

I did not understand a word

But I understood it all perfectly

I felt so connected to these topless women of all shapes and sizes

And I learned that day that 

Love, connection and joy doesn’t need words

It just is.