1st Challenge: INLINE SKATING
I was a fearful kid. I was scared of everything normal kids loved to do I think. Some of these fears are still in my life today. And that is really bugging me. I'm 22, not 12!
One of these fears was Inline Skating. I gave it a few tries somewhere between the age of 7 and 10 (I'm really bad with numbers, and memories!). And you know, a few really means just that, two or three times maybe?
I was always so scared I'd fall, so scared I would hurt myself. I would go really slow, being so insecure. That's just not fun you know. And of course I'd fall, I was just learning right? But that was just a confirmation, a reason to stop trying.
The past couple years I was reminded of this every winter, when the ice-skating range was opened. I felt I would enjoy it, but not the part where I stumble upon the ice like a baby deer. After all ice-skating is so similar to inline-skating – it's connected to the same fears, and I never got into it either.
I regret giving up as a kid now.
And there's that moment that inspired me to take up this challenge – sitting at the bus stop a couple months ago when a girl on skates got out of the bus. She rolled away so fast, but so graceful, I was amazed. I thought:
“I wish that was me!”
And that was when I knew I have to revisit this story, give it a happy ending.
I already ordered the skates – I bought used ones for a couple of euros on ebay. I was so eager, I put them on immediately after I got them out of the package, and went for a quick roll through our hallway. And the most amazing thing happened.. I had fun! And I was almost not scared at all. I wanted to start right away. But I also really wanted some protectors and my helmet – and they have moved to my new city before I did, so nope.
Six weeks might be a lot of time, maybe too much for a simple task like that, but I will give it just as much time as every other challenge. It deserves the same space and dedication.
And to tell the truth, I know it's an easy one but that's just perfect. I think easing into this year, having fun, is just what I need to get me going. Wish me luck!
Start: 1st of July
