Life had become a monotonous cycle: home, work, internet. I blamed myself for living like an amoeba, a paramecium, or what's commonly known as office plankton. I lacked hobbies, goals... But everything changed when I received a paragliding voucher for my birthday. Honestly, it lay untouched for two months before I dared to leap.
Office Plankton No More: Becoming My True Self in 30 Minutes
Arriving at the meeting point, I was greeted by a huge cliff overlooking the sea – breathtakingly beautiful and terrifyingly high. My whole body was trembling with a strange dance of nerves. Dressed in a special suit, equipped with a backup parachute, we prepared to take off. My instructor attached me securely. I checked twice. Then, we began to sprint. Helping hands raised the paraglider. The hardest part was the takeoff. I stumbled as the paraglider swayed, struggling to stay upright. But soon, we were almost flying off the cliff. My heart skipped a beat; I forgot to breathe. The height and fear were overwhelming, but once in the air, we glided smoothly.
The paraglider's canopy lifted us higher, revealing a stunning bird's-eye view. As we ascended, I wished for paper and pen to jot down my feelings, which later seemed like a blur.
Those thirty minutes were transformative. I savoured the beauty of God's creation – the earth. Fresh sea breeze against my face, blue waters beneath, mountains, forests, fields, tiny houses to the left, and the endless sea to the right. In life's usual hustle, we often miss such wonders. Up there, I surrendered to my sensations, forgetting all worries. It was life – here and now. Touching down, I felt armed to face the world anew, stronger and more capable. Those deeply buried dreams seemed achievable.
Landing was smoother than takeoff. Helpers caught me as I was unhooked from the instructor and shed the gear. Freed from the weight, I felt reborn, ready to fill my life with adventures and goals.
What can I say about the flight? It was more than just an experience; it was a life lesson. Those 30 minutes gave me more than my 24 years had. They opened my eyes to new, uncharted possibilities. I refuse to lead a life as monotonous as most. I crave travel, photography, learning new languages, traditions, and customs, exploring new cities, and meeting new people. I yearn for a life filled with intriguing events. I want to start anew, to live fully, avoiding the regret of wasted years. My next step? Skydiving. And this is just the beginning...