Learning to take risks,,,,,again

November 11, 2010 in Uncategorized

Dear all,

I am just back from leave (yes I know I am always on holiday) but this leave was special – I have had ‘learning to scuba dive’ on my list of things to do for at least 5 years, so it is always an achievement to complete something that has been so awaited! I liked the idea of diving – that peace and beauty but when I actually got to it, the class room work was OK – well at least I could understand most of the calculations and homework was something I could do (and I secretly luvvvv tests) – but then came the swimming pool practice -when I thought I would feel safe – but actually the water was murky and crowded and my new mask with lens kept fogging up – I panicked and thought I wouldn’t be able to do a sea dive….

The next day came – I was sooooooo nervous – I haven’t been that afraid for a long time – but with something to prove and the rest of the dive group being 20 years old or less, I did feel that I had something to prove – that striding off into the sea with all the equipment (tank, etc.) was scary but exhilarating – finally I was in the sea!! Going down the first time was muddled and a bit scary but once on the sea bed I could finally start to see the appeal – fish swam past – actually up to my mask – they were amazing colours, the sea anemones which were bright, brilliant blue – amazing – the eels that hide under the rocks – scary but wonderful to see….although I hated taking off my mask (yes I know – mad – but it can be done – I was made to practice again, again , again) yes I enjoyed it and as I reached the surfaced after my first dive my instructor said - I said you would end up smiling – he was right – I wanted to practice more – learn to breathe better – be able to control my actions more – just be a better diver immediately……typical – run before I could walk!!

But it is great to learn something new – something that requires drawing on hidden reserves, experiencing something one has never done before – facing fears, drawing on that courage that makes us what we are….makes the achievement greater but also reminds me that taking risks should be part of our life and whilst doing what we know is comfortable and safe, pushing the envelope is what we all should be doing – ok I’m not asking you all to learn to dive (unless you want to…) but urging you to think outside of the box, take the risks that will make your work and approaches better – test things – follow your ambitions – follow your dreams……….

Always happy to hear about your dreams….

Sarah

 

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