Welcome to the Ride of Life

Welcome to the Ride of Life. Please wait until all the gates are opened and then proceed toward the car nearest to you, loading only one passenger per car. Be sure to secure all items; you will lose your hat on this ride! Fasten your safety belts and get ready for the ride of a lifetime! …Dispatch.

The line was lengthy as I nervously stood awaiting my turn. I could see the coaster twisting and turning through the air—leering at me, daring me to step out of line. As I neared the loading dock, my stomach flip-flopped. And then the gates opened. Knowing I had no choice, I shakily boarded the car, embarking on a journey of no return.

The ride started out with a wobbly beginning, but all beginning are difficult, right? Soon enough the ride became stable and began an upward ascent. It climbed steadily; I was reaching new heights. But just when I thought I was on the top of the world, the car plummeted, leaving part of me behind. I was shaken from the first drop. I had thought I was secure, yet I was really very vulnerable. Slowly but steadily the ride made its way back up, not as high as previously, but to a comfortable level. This time, when we spiraled I saw the loop coming. It turned me upside down, but I was prepared for it and was able to laugh along with the others from the thrill of the ride. However, just as I was getting my bearings, the ride did a sharp twist, almost as if writhing in midair, and everything in the car with me went flying. I was left to pick up the pieces and sort everything out alone. Surprisingly enough, after that, came a period of peaceful coasting at a pleasurable pace. I was able to sit back and let the ride run its course without worrying too much what was going to happen. I had learned my lesson and was prepared for the worst, so when the ride did a vertical drop, I just held on to my stomach and enjoyed the sensation. During the remainder of the ride many events occurred, but none bothered me too much. I had learned that on the roller coaster of life you must ride the bumps and enjoy the thrills!