Our adventure day began with piling 11 people into a 5 passenger truck on our way to the bus station, where we went up the beautiful Colombian mountains. After a long ride extended by stops at every corner to board more passengers we finally made it.
We signed the papers and paid the fee, now to climb even higher into the sky. As I looked out at the top if the mountain I began to rethink this whole paragliding idea.
I stalled, letting others go before me, but finally it was my turn. Luckily, my pilot spoke some English and I was able to ask for a relaxing ride with no acrobatics, and he laughed and said ok. Once I was buckled into extremely loose straps I became certain this would be my last hoorah in this life, but it was too late to back out now.
He told me to start running. Towards the edge of the cliff.
Reluctantly I put one foot in front of the other, and soon the wind caught our parachute and my feet were off the ground. I was waiting for the panic to set in, but instead it was replaced by pure awe.
As we flew off the cliff I saw beautiful mountains and immediately thought, “I never want to come down”. He took us over the mountains and I saw God’s beautiful creation in a way I never had before.
Instead of being riddled with fear I was amazed at the beauty before me, wanting to soak up every second.
A few minutes in my pilot asked if I wanted to try a few acrobatics. I agreed and soon we were flying side to side, my feet kicking in the air followed by a few uncontrollable squeals and laughter.
He made me let go of my straps and held my arms out saying, “You’re flying!”
I had never experienced anything like it. I felt so alive and at peace at the same time.
After I couldn’t wait to run and tell my team how much I loved the experience urged them to jump into it without fear as well.
It made me grateful I pushed myself to do something new and unknown that left me with an experience I will never forget.
Reflecting on this later I considered my relationship with God. At times I am hesitant to run into the unfamiliar with him, trusting him to guide me. I reluctantly drag my feet, not wanting to jump off a cliff for fear of falling.
And yet, in times I do, I end up in awe of what he is does.
He is the one steering and nudging me to do a few twists a turns that may leave me with butterflies in my stomach.
In those times I want to learn to say yes and kick my feet and squeal with joy, taking in the thrill of the life he gave me.
He is the one grabbing my hands and telling me I can fly, showing me how beautiful it feels to be alive and at peace in the same moment.
Over the next year I want to say YES especially in times my mind is yelling NO.
I challenge you to do the same!
Run off the cliff, knowing God is your pilot steering you through this marvelous life, yearning for you to spread your wings and fly.
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31
