I love writing characters who are adventurous, brave, and daring. The reason I like writing for them so much is probably because I'm just the opposite. Although I've faced a fair share of terrifying circumstances, I do my best to avoid danger when I can. I won't bungee jump, I won't parachute. I'm sort of tempted by parasailing, but I have a feeling I might chicken out at the last minute.
For Christmas these past few years, my husband and I have decided to minimize giving our kids "stuff" and maximize family experiences. We've seen theater productions, gone on serial killer bus tours, and gone skiing as a family. We all prefer hanging together over cluttering up rooms and apartments with tchotchkes.
This year, my husband suggested we take them on a Segway tour. Back in December the idea sounded fabulous. That is, until the weather cleared and we made our way to Lake Shore Drive in Chicago and I realized I would have to navigate on one of these devices through hordes of bicyclists, joggers, strollers, dog-walkers, and more. Way more.
Yet.
Our guide, Adam, taught us all one-on-one how to operate the monsters. As he held tight to the handle and impressed upon me how very important it was to NEVER step off without his help, I said, "I'm really nervous." I actually think that was pretty obvious. He assured me I'd be fine. When he finally sent me to the nearby park to practice before the tour, I moved about an inch a minute. Pathetic. Want to move forward? Lean forward. Want to stop? Lean back, but never allow yourself to roll backward. Got that? Never. And you don't turn it like a bike. You just lean the handle sideways if you want to turn.
Gak.
Look, no hands! The family including the boyfriends: L-R, Curt, Luke, Sara, me, Biz, Robyn, Andrew |
But you know what? I survived. We all did. Marvelously. We rode south along the lakefront to the museum campus and then back, taking in the city skyline and the sparkling lake. It was a gorgeous, sunny, warm day. Wonderful, awesome experience.
I'm so glad I did this! I was scared... more than a little. But pushing past my fears brought me an experience I truly enjoyed.
Have you ever faced a fear and had it turn out well? Or just the opposite? Are you more or less likely to push yourself these days?