I have done a few stupid things in my life, and the first one that comes to mind is standing in line at Islands of Adventure for the Incredible Hulk roller coaster. I hate roller coasters, and there I stood for over half an hour near tears anticipating my imminent death on this metal contraption. As I advanced to the platform where they post many signs describing the ways the ride can kill you, I decided to weigh my options. What if I stepped through the exit or "bail out" door and had a few fries and a hot dog while I waited for my friends to enjoy the ride instead? What would happen if I didn't take the ride of death? Would I be less of a person for bailing out? Would I always wonder what if? Would I play it safe and enjoy the rides less likely to make my heart stop or take a risk and climb into the green harness of fear? I paid my $97 US dollars for my fast pass so I should make it count right?
I loved that 47 seconds that I was on that ride, but I would not do it again. My life hasn't changed since going on it, but at least I can say I did it.
I went to theatre school. Scary, bumpy, expensive and risky...but it's no Hulk coaster. The difference is, I would do it all over again, and then some. The highs and lows, the drops and climbs, the tears and laughter, the debt and despair, because it shaped me. It made me who I am today, and I am proud of that. I glanced at the bail out door several times at Sheridan, but never walked through it. That is what makes me as strong as the Hulk every day, and right about now, I need that strength, because this has been the hardest 3 weeks I've ever had to face.
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