Sporty, outdoors mood this weekend – nature walks, spa, tennis lessons with kid. Always intrigued by planes, birds, butterflies, insects, even mosquitos – anything that flies. D-Day to Skydive with brothers. New Zealand (Dec ’17). Clear blue skies with a cool, crisp breeze. Beautiful day for an adventurous jump from 12,000 feet.
Signing waiver forms felt scary, despite watching happy videos. Took full responsibility for injury or death. Trusted universe to play an inner gamble, surrender fears. Favourite songs to avoid major freak outs!
Waited for instructor. Gave a jump suit, fixed harness, diving goggles. Excited as if going to war fronts. Quick refresher – cross arms, head back, knees bent, jump. One tap on shoulder to open arms. Second to bring arms to chest, as parachute opens. Knees bent for landing. Questions?
“How many jumps have you done before?” Smiled, “more than 3000”. Finally felt safer. Boarded plane. ‘Wait, it’s no turning back, can’t freak out? Run, stay, run, stay. Fool?’ Now universe also conspired me to jump! Pilot – we are in. Door closed. We’re off. WTF! Totally freaked out, simply freeeeeeeaked. OMG.
At 11,000 feet, nudged to open door. Standing at edge – adrenaline rush, absolute amazement at vast openness, wind speeds of 200 mph. In that moment of sheer anticipation felt no tension, no worry – a blank, a void. Everything in the nothingness. Breath-taking, beautiful earth views, peace within.
Tandem jump! Seconds a blur, sensory overload. At terminal velocity, inconceivably incredible. No falling sensation. Floating on surreal cushions of air. Launched red parachutes after 40-60 seconds of free-fall. Gracefully gliding towards drop zone. Spinning parachutes 3-4 times, great fun!
Won inner gamble, no less than a miracle! Skydiving is unbelievably intoxicating! One with the world…