“All that matters is that you jump.”
One of my trapeze instructors whispers this to me as I am suddenly about to swing off a platform that feels as though it is miles from the ground.
I take a deep breath, bend my knees and then leap-I leap for my fears of heights- for my fears of falling - I leap for my friends – for proving that my last turbulent experience dealing with heights hasn’t held me back - and I leap for myself.
And I soar - like a bird. I feel the air rush past my face. I hear for my commands from below. Legs up. See my hands. Let go. Look for Brooklyn. Enjoy the ride. And boy was I enjoying the the ride.
I listen for my commands again – Legs down, and “up,” which in trapeze lingo means… Drop.
“Awesome,” I proclaim and I get giddy about trying it again.
Trapeze was one of the greatest activities I’ve tried this year. Joined by good friends, I knew that this was the best way to kick off a Saturday morning. And not only was it fun–but it taught me a great lesson as well.
“All that matters it that you jump.”
The words continue to echo.
A metaphor flashes before my eyes.
Every day asks us to jump - to make a choice.
We can either stand still or make a change. It may not literally mean a jump from the sky - but it could rather be as simple as a phone call to an old friend, or family member we’ve lost touch with.
It could be taking a new job–or having the courage to ask for a raise at your current one.
In the end, all that matters is having the courage to jump.
Libby Segal is a New York City based associate producer, writer, stand up comedian, and the official Hobby Hoarder. Follow her adventures at www.thehobbyhoarder.com