Skateboarding in Peru and a Lesson on Invincibility
“When adults say, ‘Teenagers think they are invincible’ with that sly, stupid smile on their faces, they don’t know how right they are. We need never be hopeless, because we can never be irreparably broken. We think that we are invincible because we are.” — John Green, “Looking for Alaska”
Skateboarding in Peru is as much a part of the youth culture as hip hop and breakdancing. I recently attended a local skateboarding event and competition at the skatepark here in Huancayo:
Watching the guys bang themselves up as they attempted risky tricks had me thinking about the feeling of invincibility. There’s a certain power and confidence you need in order to put yourself out there despite knowing the falls you’ll face. It’s the same state I’m in when I practice acrobatics. I eventually face my fears because I often feel like nothing really harmful can ever happen to me. My heroes are my peers who break a leg or hurt a knee but are back at it again as soon as they’re well enough. After all, no pain, no gain, right?
I imagine it’s almost like a dare to learn the skateboarding trick called, “Impossible,” or attempt what we call a mortal here in Peru — flips with no hands.
The Spanish word for “invincible” has only a slight change in one vowel: invencible. Seeing as how “invencible” is tied to the Spanish word, vencer (to defeat, overcome, be victorious), it clued me in to the etymology of the word. Its root is the Latin, invincibilis (to conquer): to be invincible is to be unconquerable.
I have felt pretty invincible all my life until earlier this month when I got my blood results back. I had high cholesterol. The doctor says it’s nothing alarming, but these are the consequences of not having a balanced diet. After spending a year in Japan eating instant noodles and spam, I thought I was untouchable and could get away with eating a lot of junk for the rest of my life. Apparently not and I’m grateful for the early warning.
Have you experienced the transition from feeling invincible to realizing that you’re not? If so, what made you discover your vulnerability and humanness?
Tags: acrobatic flips, humanness, invincibility vulnerability, skateboarding in peru, skateboarding tricks peru, skatepark huancayo
Barbara
Love it, Sam, the way you desribe an “innocent” skatboarding event and then link it to being invincible and unconquerable!
Have I experienced the like? Oh, yes, it came with a bang , one moment you are at the top of everything and the next you wake up at the bottom! This was way back when I was still married, had a child of 5, a thriving business in EDP and a very active social life. One day I realised (okay with the help of a friend who persuaded me to go to hospital – immediately!) that I could not see anything with my right eye – my retina had detached itself and there was permanent damage to it.
The consequences were monumental (divorce, selling my share in the company, years of therapy and misery), today I think it had less to do with the eye damage but with the way I handled the situation. Still learning!
Samantha Bangayan
Omigoodness! You know exactly how I felt, Barbara! It was that exact shock that my body wasn’t perfect and couldn’t withstand everything. I can’t believe how far the consequences reached. To me, it’s a reminder that everything is so interconnected in this world from what happens to us, what we discover, and how we approach it all.
Thanks so much for sharing your story and for your humility, friend!
Lalia
I have certainly felt invincible at times in my life, especially when I was young like the skateboarders or when you first fall in love. But when reality hits and you realize you actually have to work or the guy you so love is a total jerk, that can certainly bring you down a few notches.
Samantha Bangayan
That’s a reeeally good example, Lalia — the one about first falling in love! Boy, did my expectations change after that first love. =P
sangeng wong
Wow, what a quantum leap, from being invincible in skateboarding to feeling a sense of being vulnerable due to bodily “imperfection” (as having high cholesterol, in Samantha’s case). Achieving difficult move involves “approximation” in terms of degrees of difficulties, progressing .slowly. Many an adventurous spirited individuals wish to “peak” in their endeavour, The hash house harrier runners could run their rounds twice a day, covering many miles, testing their limit of endurance. I think such spirit is one of a powerful traits of ideality in an individual.
Building upon such spirit, I did defy the attack of my cough, by trying alternative cures and did overcome the attack of a bad cough, though, many a nights, I felt vulnerable and low spirited. But I felt good, after having recovered from the serious night cough, perhaps with stronger lungs then before :0)), without taking any “western” medicine.
When will the next time you are going to peak in your adventure? I look forward to one, to feel undaunted, brave and fearless, such as hiking up to the peak of the most climbed/hiked hill near my town. Powerful post, Samantha, keep peaking.
Samantha Bangayan
I really identify with that description of “the ideal” you describe, Sang Eng! Interestingly enough, I think different people have different ways of approaching difficult moves in skateboarding or acrobatics; for example, a guy nicknamed “disgrace’ here is known for fearlessly attempting any acrobatic move whether or not he is technically ready for it.
You know, I’m going through a cough and sore throat right now, a persistent, chronic one that is related to bacteria here, I think. It’s really heartening to hear how you were able to recover even without Western medicine! =) Do share your secrets! =)
Thanks so much for your encouragement, Sang Eng! =) I love that image of reaching the peak of a hill or in life! =)
Stuart Nager
Never thought myself invincible, but…gettinjg hit \with so many things at once did put me into a very different head. Not fearing death (we will all die: I accpt that) but not living in pain…that one hit me hard.
Take care of yourself Samantha.
Samantha Bangayan
I hadn’t thought about that, Stu! You know, I think I avoid horror movies, especially the ones that are about painful suffering and revenge, precisely because of that aversion to excessive pain.
Muriel
I like your video. I especially like when they fall and get back on their skateboard.
As for feeling invincible, we all did and realised that, after all, we were all human and fragile. Take your cholesterol scare as an opportunity to get back on track without any damage. A lucky escape!
Samantha Bangayan
I love your perspective, Muriel! I watched those guys fall and winced, but I should have at least also been proud of the way they got back on their skateboards.
I’m definitely way more conscious of what I eat now! Thanks for your encouragement, friend! =)
Vinny T.
That’s really interesting food for thought..Often , great things can be accomplished only when we put aside our fears and dedicate ourselves totally ito what we seek to accomplish, and often, the goals that we create for ourselves can be so difficult that only be total dedication, commitment, and positivity can make them reachable.Some of these goals might be incredibly dangerous and only a feeling of invincibility can allow one to pursue and succeed in accomplishing them. Behind all that is the reality that some of our goals may actually be impossible to accomplish and may result in terrible harm. I think most risk or thrill-takers know this, but also know that they must put aside such fears when they feel that the goals that they wish to pursue is worth the risk. And most often, whether or not such dangerous pursuits are actually worth the risks involved is something that’s totally subjective. When I’m in Peru next month, I’m sure that I’ll see plenty of kids doing dangerous skateboard stunts at the park nearby and I’ll probably think that their foolish for the risks that they’ll be taking. At the same time, in the back of my mind, I’ll probably be wishing that I was a kid again able to be practicing those stunts along with them.
Samantha Bangayan
I really appreciate your observations here, Vinny, especially because they remind me that it’s not about hitting one point where I suddenly don’t feel invincible anymore and won’t feel it ever again. Truthfully, I can still establish a goal and harness that feeling of invincibility and fearlessness again! This is promising! =)
Li @FlashFiction
I don’t equate “invincible/unconquerable” with “immortal”. No one lives forever; but it is possible to lead a “dead” life, when hope and faith are gone and we lose the spirit of discovery and childlike inquisitiveness that we all begin with. If there are 50 Eskimo words for snow, then there must be 5000 universal words for suffering. Yet as long as we can find it in ourselves to push on, fight back, and savour those fleeting moments of genuine love and beauty that come our way – we are truly invincible. :-))
Samantha Bangayan
I see the difference, Li! Dead versus energy. That last line of yours is a memorable one. Thanks for the reminder, friend! =) I want my life to continue to be about persistence and appreciation!
Thom Brown
I’ve been down the high cholesterol road – inherited the tendency from both parents, and it led to a major heart attack. It’s controlled now with medication. You’re young and can get it controlled before there is any damage. Just don’t ignore it.
Samantha Bangayan
Sheesh! Now that’s a real warning! Thank you, as always, for being so open with your health, Thom! You’ve really taught me so much in these past months!
Chris Barba
Wow, that’s an awesome video!!
And what a great point you bring up. I still feel invincible at times. And it’s mainly my naive, inexperience with the world, that creates this false belief.
There was one instance in particular where I was quite literally thrown into terms with my mortality. I fell off a balcony and head to get staples in my head. I think that’s when something finally clicked. We are no indestructible, and that is for the best, otherwise hope and dreams would stay that way forever. With a ticking clock it’s time to go after what we really want!
PS I’m about a hundred pages into this book called, The Psychopath Test, and while I still don’t have an opinion on it, partly because there are things I’m not in complete agreement with, but it’s been a very interesting read. Thought it might be something you’d be interested in.
Samantha Bangayan
Ooh! You stopped me at “naive.” That’s exactly where my feeling of invincibility comes from, I feel! I’ve always been the naive, gullible one and I hope to continue to be naive in the most positive way possible without being stupid.
Wow! I’m so glad you came out of that accident all right, Chris! And you bring up such an important point that those not-so-invincible moments or epochs can be reminders of how we need to take advantage of *now*! =)
Excited to check the book out! =) I’m getting a Kindle as soon as I get back to Canada for the holidays — good timing!
Manuel Paucar
Interesting reflections! Several years ago, a student in class read the palm of my hand and told me I would live until I was 96. “¡Qué flojera!,” I said outloud, “¿setenta años más de esta vida? ¡C’mon!” I was 26 years old back then, living in Puerto Rico. During the course of time, knowing I’m going to die at 96 has given me a humorous sense of invulnerability. Somehow, I feel entitled to try risky things because “I ain’t gon’ die yet.” It may be right or it may be wrong. “No te preocupes, todavÃa no me toca morirme. Tengo la vida comprada hasta los 96 años,” I tell people whenever there’s some type of risk involved in the actions I take. I know there’s no such thing as immortality, and that I may very well die tomorrow. I prefer to live a bit more recklessly and a less cautious life. Whether my life’s not entirely bought out, it’s the intensity that you enjoy, I guess.
Samantha Bangayan
I can imagine, Manuel! =) I’d almost like to know the year my life will end — whether it’s sooner or later, it’s another piece of motivation to remind me to live life fully! =)
I’m not sure what has been my motivation thus far, but I feel you on living life more recklessly. Maybe you’re right that it’s the intensity of it all. I’m all about feeling and living the extremes. =)
Adriene
Not to worry, Sam, you turn the cholesterol situation around! I remember clearly a moment at an amusement park sometime in my 20s when I was on the biggest, fastest roller coaster I had ever been on. Before then I loved the thrill of a fast coaster, but this one was so crazy I actually feared for my life! It dawned on me then that I am not invincible. Weird feeling.
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks for the support, Adriene! I’ve been taking better care of what I eat, so hopefully my next blood test will have some good news! =)
Sheesh! I can only imagine what it must have been like on that super freaky rollercoaster. I haven’t had the guts to get on rollercoasters that seem deathly. =P
Sherry Zander
I remember feeling invincible all my life … until an accident that occurred in November 2001 while vacationing on the shores of Paradise Island in the Bahamas. I tore all the ligaments in my right knee. Having an accident on the first day of an exotic vacation cruise was one thing, but finding myself disabled on foreign shores for the remainder of the trip was even more horrific. Since then, I am well aware of my humanity and frailty; although …on occasion … I still feel invincible.
Samantha Bangayan
Omigoodness! I’m so glad you came out of that incident all right, Sherry! I remember freaking out once when I scraped my knee in a bicycle accident in Japan — it wasn’t because of the knee; it was because I wasn’t able to communicate with anyone! I can only imagine how scary it must have been to be in such a serious accident and *not* be at home. I hope you were somehow still able to enjoy the vacation!
Joy
Invincible = unconquerable….How intriguing! This essay is kind of in line with what I’m writing/ trying to finish right now, though mine is about love. Funny that you should bring up invincibility Sam….cool! So when did I realize my vulnerability?…One time that comes to mind was when I had some bleeding when I was pregnant with Noah. I was almost 20wks pregnant but still feeling strong and ‘normal’ = non-pregnant…carrying stuff, moving around, going up and down. When I bled and had the scare of my life, I felt it was life telling me to slow down and fully take in the reality that my life as I knew it has ended and that there is now this other being I need to focus on more. 🙂
Samantha Bangayan
Yeah! Lalia had me thinking about invincibility and love too! I hadn’t even considered it, but it makes so much sense — love can change us in a very similar way!
Omigoodness, I cannot even imagine what it must be like to go through that transition from single-dom to motherhood, to the realization that it’s not all about me anymore. Now, that would be a shocker to me! =)
Fred Tracy
Nice article. Come to think of it, I assumed that I’m invincible as well. But actually, I think I have moderately high blood pressure, probably from a terrible diet as well.
I think the key is to trick ourselves and thinking we’re invincible, while at the same time making responsible choices – something that’s pretty darn hard to do.
Cool skateboarding by the way. 😛
Samantha Bangayan
Sounds like we’re exactly in the same position, Fred. =P I didn’t even think about this feeling of invincibility until I came to terms with my cholesterol/blood troubles too!
I love that balance you describe between invincibility and responsibility. That would be ideal! =)
Bryce Christiansen
I’ve noticed this trend in youth as well and it has helped me remind myself each day, “if this were my last would I be satisfied?”
I have a similar problem where I tend to eat whatever interests me. I’ve been skinny all my life and I don’t tend to eat a ton, but I’m sure it can’t be good for me.
I always love reading your blog,
Bryce
Samantha Bangayan
I know what you mean, Bryce! It’s such an important reminder that life is so fleeting.
I hadn’t thought about that potential disadvantage of being skinny. You don’t always see the consequences of eating tons of junk food! My brother is like that too! =)
Aww! Thanks soo much for your love, friend! I really enjoy reading your blog too and I’m so glad you reached out! =)
The Pepperrific Life
I never thought of myself as invincible- even in my younger days :).
I’m just too chicken to venture out into the world. The unknown scares the daylights out of me. I would like to develop that feeling of invincibility in me, though. I know I’ll be able to achieve more if I were bolder.
Excellent writing- as always 🙂
Samantha Bangayan
That’s soo interesting to me, Pepper! =) I guess we all seek for a bit more of what is needed to fully embrace goals. And hey, I don’t think you’re “chicken” at all — it takes guts to be an amazing mommy!
Vinny T.
I though that I was pretty much invulnerable up to the point when I experienced a massive stroke that almost killed me. Prior to that , I thought that I was completely healthy, was a thriving athlete who ran six miles a day, worked out regularly at the gym, had those great six pack abs, achieved great academic success by getting a Ph.d. in record time, and had conquered all the obstacles that ever confronted me. Little did I know that a congenital defect, exacerbated by all my exercise would screw me up. That catastrophic event sure made me feel vulnerable. Fortunately, I’ve been able to pick up most of the pieces , move on, and live a pretty full life. I’m happy that My intellect wasn’t effected,and that despite the challenges that I’ve faced, I’ve still been able to excel in many ways, and function at a much higher level in many ways than people who have not had to endure the challenges that I’ve had to face. I think that my experiences have helped me to appreciate life more than most others, and to appreciate more the moments of happiness that I am blessed with.
Samantha Bangayan
Holy mackerel! I would have never thought that exercise could potentially lead to a stroke in a person. Yours is the perfect example — the success story that came crashing down but was built up into true success, one that is able to find the balance between vulnerability and the feeling of invincibility. The way you describe your dreams and accomplishments, and the way you continue to be so active in more ways than one is proof, to me, that you can still harness that feeling of invincibility. =) As you did, I also want to learn from my newfound vulnerability to be more grateful! Thanks for the reminder, Vinny!
Penelope J.
Insightful post. Loved your segue from skateboarders to the etymology of the word “invincible” to your own feelings of vulnerability with the high cholesterol diagnosis. Just, please Samantha, don’t let this shadow your life. Don’t ever lose your sense of adventure. Feeling vulnerable can do that..
All my life, I’ve felt invincible. Whatever happened – hair-raising accidents personal and professional disasters, life disruptions, major losses – I believed I could overcome them. Even when I couldn’t walk, I knew I’d come out fighting, and I did. I must admit that, on occasion, I do feel vulnerable when I have economic, emotional, or health challenges, but then these all become obstacles/challenges to surmount.
That said, feeling invincible also made me careless with my life much like those young skateboarders who take big risks and disregard the consequences. Because I was careless, unlike you who heeded your doctor’s advice when your were diagnosed with high cholesterol, I jeopardized my health (high blood pressure – oh well, I’ll die of a heart attack but I’ll live to the hilt). I chose to do what I wanted over security which has resulted in living on the edge for the past twenty years. Now it’s a challenge to keep going at my age as I have little to fall back on. But, somehow, I know I’ll make it – that’s the invincible part.
The time may come when either health or old age may defeat me, but while I can, I suppose I’ll go on like the skateboarders, courting and skirting disaster for as long as I can.
Samantha Bangayan
Good point, Pennie! I want this newfound vulnerability to strengthen me and not change me for the worse.
You know, this is the first health challenge I’ve faced. I think that I feel stronger when it comes to overcoming emotional and often economic challenges. I should be able to harness this belief in myself with health too! Your example of fighting through not even being able to walk is a powerful one for me!
I guess it’s about finding that balance between energy/adventure and carelessness. I think that I’ll continue to search and dwell in the adventures. =) And I’ll remember what you said, that: “Somehow, I know I’ll make it.” =) You are a true inspiration, friend! =) <3
Adrienne
Hey Samantha,
I can’t really say that I ever thought of myself as invincible. I have at certain times in my life had everything ripped out from underneath me. I eventually crawled my way back up, never letting anything take me down permanently. I guess I can see how that could somewhat relate to putting your life at risk in any type of sport.
I am so very blessed that I’ve had no serious health issues myself. I have had a mini stroke and at one time did have high blood pressure. That came after the loss of my father and I did battle depression for a couple of years due to all of that.
All I know is that you can’t keep me down. One way or the other, I’ll be back! 🙂
Samantha Bangayan
Now, *that* is super inspiring, Adrienne! =) I can see the invincibility in the feeling of knowing that you’ll always find a way through any obstacle or challenge! =) That’s the same energy and strength I want to carry through my life too, even when the doctor shows me my blood results. =P
Adrienne
The way I look at that Samantha is that it’s just a little bump in the road. You’re never given more than you can handle and because of our experiences, we can help others in a whole new way. 🙂
Samantha Bangayan
Thank you so much for your positivity, Adrienne! =) Life is manageable after all and I love the idea of focusing on how we can help others rather than being overwhelmed with our individual concerns!
Dayle Fraschilla
Excellent post, Sam.
My realization of vulnerability came much too early, in my opinion. I’ve talked about losing my mom when I was 16 quite often. I’m not sure if I mentioned that she was only 33. My vulnerability is hitting me even harder as my 33rd birthday approaches. (9 months away, but still)
I’ve gone back and forth over the years in how I reacted to that sense of vulnerability. There are times when I am extra cautious and time when I throw caution to the wind because, “if I’m gonna die anyway, I might as well have some fun in the meantime.”
I think the important thing is to find a balance. Now that I have my child, I err more on the side of caution.
Samantha Bangayan
You know, I’ve always appreciated your openness in sharing about your mom. I haven’t had to go through someone so close to me passing away and I can only imagine how it would affect me and how I deal with life.
I like the balance that you touch on — of being cautious and taking risks. I’m so curious how my balance will change if/when I have a child too!
Sunday Sharing: Right-brained thinking, angering moms, author events and more « I shall be a toad
[…] Samantha blogs about skateboards and relates it to how we all have tendency to feel invincible. […]
Carolyn
Hi Samantha, this post reminded me about the post of the boy who was jaywalking and got killed. I bet he thought he was invincible too!
It’s one of the rough lessons of youth, that we are not invincible.
My oldest daughter just turned 16 and will be driving soon. I hope she realizes she is not invincible and drives safely!
Samantha Bangayan
I hadn’t thought about that, Carolyn! Percy definitely must have felt invincible! I can see how the feeling has a lot to do with being young too! Boy, am I feeling older these days, especially with my birthday passing by next week. =P
I also hope that your daughter drives safely! =) I used to know a guy who would speed all the time. As far as I know, he was never caught and that only encouraged him. =S
Stan Faryna
I still have moments when I forget my fragility. About a year ago, I jumped out of the car to confront an angry taxi driver and my friends still get a kick out of reminding me about it.
We were traveling in three cars. I was in the second. A friend in the first car didn’t push into a crowded intersection on a yellow light and the taxi driver behind him was upset that he lost some minutes. He jumped out of his taxi and started beating hard on the window of my friend’s car.
Without thinking, I jumped out of the car I was riding in (behind the taxi) and loudly threatened the taxi driver if he didn’t get back into his taxi. The taxi driver was a big guy and he could have taken me down quickly. But I was loud and very lucky. He got back in his taxi.
I felt poorly for three days after. [laughing]
I miss the invincibility of youth. [grin] But I also appreciate vulnerability, it teaches many things such as empathy, patience, and kindness.
The best solutions, I have learned, are often not the quickest and most expedient of solutions. Force is an imperfect and means to enforce compliance. Nor does force inspire commitment, gratitude nor solidarity.
Samantha Bangayan
Haha! =) Wow! You are gutsy, Stan! =) Although, I often find myself automatically reacting without thinking of the consequences when it comes to matters of justice too. And I often regret those illogical gut reactions too. =P But you bring up such a good point. Imagine if you had gotten your butt kicked — even that situation would have been a valuable learning experience.
I guess what eventually matters is the learning process we go through and that we remain open to learning, so that we can experience and learn the very lessons you describe! Thanks for your wisdom, friend!
Adeline
The last time that I had that experience was also competing in drag races back in college. After winning a back-to-back title and 1st runner up overall, I thought I was invincible. That was until four years later when I discovered that I developed a tumor around my spine and had my surgery. Being bedridden after the surgery for more than a month was a really painful wakeup call for me that I’m not as indestructible as I thought I was. Since then, I’ve taken things a bit slow.
PS. Do take care of yourself, Samantha! You’re far too young to have to deal with high cholesterol. *Hugs*
Samantha Bangayan
Wow! There is so much that I have just learned about you in this comment of yours, Adeline! I am now imagining you as a drag racer in “The Fast and the Furious.” I am also admiring you for being a cancer survivor. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences.
Thanks also for the warmth, friend! I’m definitely taking care of what I eat these days! =) Hugs back!
Adeline
You know, quite coincidentally, that’s one of my favorite movies. =) Hahahahaha!!!
It’s good to hear that you’re taking care of yourself now. Hugs back my friend! =)
Allie | Ramblings of a WAHM
Samantha,
First off, you better take better care of yourself! Get some more veggies in! (Do I sound like a mom? I can, cuz I am. LOL). Be well.
Second, I can’t remember when I have ever felt invincible. I know there are times I take life for granted and then something bad happens to me or someone else and that brings me back to reality. Those are some of the times I decide to change something in my life. But invincible? Honestly, I wish I could feel that way just for a day.
~Allie
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks, MOM! =) I have to admit that I was definitely lacking veggies (i.e., near zero servings per month). I’ve come to terms with the fact that I avoid cooking and have started buying set, balanced meals. They are super yummy and helpful in my goal to bring down my cholesterol! =)
I hear you on the rollercoaster of life, Allie! Things have brought me up and down too, but I think my feeling of invincibility comes from that very fact — that life always seems to go up eventually! =)
sangeng wong
Hi, Samantha,I think with hind-sight, alternative cures for bad cough are multi-pronged. I would/have used : steam bath, drink concentrated wild honey with lemon, drink boiled Chinese medicine, take some home-made pills (supposed to warm the lungs, which become “cold” after long spell of cough), sleep on warm material, such as a sofa (leather or non leather), away from stressful work and air-con….hope you become physically stronger after you have recovered. Someone said, drink as much warm water as you could, so much so that you would go to urine often. Learn to try out herbal cures.
Ah, about your post on invincibility, this links to self confidence and “Cheerfulness, and often Confidence, that is a mind devoid of fear” has been regarded as the highest good.'( Democritus). Cheers
Samantha Bangayan
Ooh! Steam bath is a great idea! =) I also really like the prospect of honey with lemon — that actually sounds delicious! =) I’ll have to see if I can stock up on Chinese medicine when I’m in Vancouver or find something similar in Chinatown in Lima.
As for drinking tons of warm water, I do that regularly! =) It’s kind of an unconscious habit while I work! =)
Thanks for all your advice, Sang Eng! =) Love that quote!
Nick Rosener
Such cool photography! Love it!
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much, Nick! It was one of my fave shots ever. =)
So great to meet you, btw! =)
Bonnie Copeland
Hi Samantha. Terrific story you used here. It’s amazing to me what these people put themselves through in order to be able to do these stunts. Funnyily enough I’m not one of those people who felt invincible as a kid. I’ve always been keenly aware of the opposite. And yet I also have a burning need to do things that others consider out of the normal and..well just out there. And I do. Terrified at times I still gear up and get going and I love that about myself as much as a few people in my life really dislike it. I wonder if these skaters feel the same way.
Terrific post, really made me think!
Lynn Brown
My son has been skateboarding since he was 8 years old! I remember his first trip down the little ramp and he fell, started to cry, but picked himself up and kept going. Today he is pretty good, but it is scary for me to watch him especially when he falls.
I think any sport activity for me has been something I loved until I turned that ‘corner’ called age! I enjoy watching since I already have gone through twice having torn ligaments, scrapes, cuts, bruises and black eyes! But it was fun. Thanks Samantha for sharing your thoughtful post.
Janine
Oh this is so what I’ve gone through over the last thing months. I think getting sick, and then getting my test results back last week was a HUGE wake up call for me.