Blog #120~Lessons Learned on a Zip Line
Recently on a vacation to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, my siblings and I decided to book an excursion to go on a zip line. It seemed like a good idea at the time. You know something to knock off the bucket list. That is until the crew at Runners Adventures began to strap the equipment on me. The instructor explained the zip line course, proper technique and hand signals to watch for. There were 12 lines total, the first few were lower. All I had to do was make it through the first set and I could bail out. As we climbed the stairs to the first cable, the fear began paralyzing me.
The staff person clipped the metal hooks over the double cables and instructed me to sit back, tuck my knees in, and to rest my hand on the cable and keep it relaxed. I let go of my clenched fist and glided to the other side (and without one single scream or swear word). The second line was a fast one, 6 seconds to the other side (oh and be sure to smile because there was a photo op). I came down that line like a bullet and finished feeling like a crazed, adrenaline junkie.
The stairs leading up to the rest of the lines got higher and the cables were longer and more risky. My brother in law could see the look on my face, that of singular focus. He reminded me to take time to enjoy the scenery. I kept my hand loose soaring with ease and taking in the beautiful views. By the way, I made it through all 12 lines. 🙂
Later at the beach, I glanced out at the brilliant, blue Caribbean ocean reflecting on the adventure……
Sometimes, we need to push ourselves way out of the comfort zone. Doing something so scary and unfamiliar forces you to face life’s uncertainties. I have a lot of fears regarding my son, Nick. He is 21 years old, and has Down syndrome and autism. I worry about his future after he finishes the post-transition program next February. I’m uncertain about him living in a group home someday. Who is going to insure his safety? How will I know if he was possibly neglected or abused, since he has very limited speech? Will he think that I have abandoned him? Will he be fulfilled and loved as much as he is here at home?
Nick enjoying the hot tub on our deck……
I learned a few things on the zip line. Even if you are uncertain, you have to trust that the staff has your back and just let go. At some point, I need to loosen my grip and trust that others can take care of Nick in the future. It’s okay to be uncertain; but those fears can hold you back, and you might miss a great ride. In fact by relaxing my hand and letting go, I felt a spark ignite inside me. That’s what is in my noggin this week. 🙂
~Teresa
Down Syndrome with a Slice of Autism 