The Big Swing

I had an experience last weekend that I wanted to share with you because it is a great metaphor for the decisions we make in life.

I was at a Ladies Retreat at SABC and they have something called “The Big Swing”.  It is constructed out of Power line poles, and you are wearing a harness when you are hoisted up (way up) by ropes.  When you are positioned about 50’ in the air the only thing holding you back from swinging is a small lever that you need to release yourself so it will let you go.  When you let go you swing back like you have had a 50’ high under duck.  From the ground it looks so easy, and it is easy to encourage others to release it and go for the swing.  It is another thing to be the one in the moment that needs to release the lever to let go.  It didn’t take me forever to decide to release the lever but I did have to talk myself into it at the top.  The hesitation to let go, and the mental  “cheerleading” I did for myself took maybe 30 seconds, but time for me did feel like it stood still a bit at the top.  I think it is a really good metaphor for life, when we are in the moment and making decisions for our life time does seem to slow down for us when the event or decision is very close to us.  From the outside it is easy to encourage and not get too caught up in the details.  It is easier to see clearly from the outside, as we aren’t the one as impacted by the moment or what is going on at the center.

It was encouraging to me to have the group of women below supporting and cheering me to release it.  This is really what I tuned into when my fears started to make me second guess my decision.

I am thankful for the people in my life that are my cheerleaders in life!  Think of those people that are your cheerleaders, and to whom you are a cheerleader for.  Remember to keep encouraging them – Your cheers do make an impact!