I’m afraid of heights. Well, that’s not entirely accurate, I’m afraid of falling. I have always hated roller coasters, cliffs, and the Ferris Wheel. I don’t understand why people are adrenaline junkies. I would never budgie jump, sky dive, or rope swing, so don’t ask!
Back in October, month 2 of my race, I decided fear is never a good enough reason to stop someone. If fear is the only thing holding you back, then do it. Fear is created by your own mind and can become your worst enemy. I was talking to a teammate and decided, if there was ever a time I was challenged to do something and my only excuse was fear, then I should do it. Of course, I decided to make a grand gesture and show my fear who is boss. Go big or go home, I decided to overcome the idea of fear by budgie jumping. I had the opportunity to budgie jump in Thailand, but decided to delay the worst thing in the world and jump in South Africa. I would conclude my race but overcoming my fears and jump off the tallest thing I could find. I forgot about this decision in February and hoped my teammate did too. Well, I found myself in month 11, South Africa, time to jump. I am proud to say I jumped at the World Cup soccer stadium in Durban. (The tallest rope swing in the world.) I didn’t freak out as I strapped in and climbed hundreds of stairs to the wonderfully high and tiny platform. As I climbed out onto the platform I couldn’t even turn around and face the field. I didn’t turn around till the last minute. I yelled at Kyle a bit, “I can’t believe you’re making me do this!” As they stood with me and counted, 1, 2, 3, I yelled, “NO” and then jumped off. OMG! What a free fall. It felt like forever. I’m so glad I did it and still can’t believe I did!
We are not made to be people of fear. One of my favorite verses states, “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) This year has been all about overcoming my fears. It’s been amazing. I can look back and trace God’s hand throughout this entire journey, moments where he pushed me to speak up and others he pushed me to act. Thank you God for this incredible journey.
