A Milestone 10k Run and a Near Death Experience
Running a 10k race at the ripe age of 64, I accomplished a feat that made me think about aged individuals in a different light. I completed my run in 48 minutes, achieving the goal that I had set for myself despite my gammy knee, and with an upcoming birthday that just adds to the significance of this achievement. This story, however, is not just about the race; it is also a testimony of how adversity can turn into an opportunity for reflection.
A Near Death Experience
One of the most memorable experiences of my life occurred while I was participating in a Kellison Formula V race car. In a heart-stopping moment, I found myself upside down, suspended in mid-air, as the car's only protective roll bar did little to shield me from the impending impact. Time seemed to slow down, and I had a moment to wonder if I was about to meet my end. When the car finally came to a stop, upside down, with me hanging from my 5-point harness, relief washed over me. However, the moment was marred by frustration when I realized the car had been severely damaged in the crash. My wife, friends, and even the crowd at the race course, all unaware of the event, were treated to the announcer's detailed account of my predicament, ending with the revelation that I was “not happy.”
Experiences that Separate Us from Our Peers
There are certain experiences that we, as aging individuals, have the privilege of sharing that might not resonate with our younger peers. For instance, the experience of scuba diving can be both exhilarating and humbling. Diving allows you to explore a world that most people know only through photos or documentaries. The sensation of weightlessness and the underwater camaraderie with fellow divers present a unique blend of adventure and human connection.
Training as a member of the Department of Corrections in the early 2000s exposed me to some of the toughest physical challenges of my life. Being sprayed with pepper spray, tear gassed, or subjected to a stun device were essential parts of the training. But let’s be clear about one thing: if I had to choose, the stun device is the clear winner. Pepper spray is a nasty business; not only does it inflict immediate pain, but it continues to cause discomfort even after you’ve showered, as it can reach more sensitive areas. Ingestion through the skin can also lead to gastrointestinal issues that seem to last forever.
Reflections and Lessons Learned
Through these experiences, I've learned the importance of mental fortitude and resilience. Physical challenges, especially as we age, can change, but our capacity for growth and learning does not have to diminish. Whether it's a 10k race, diving into the unknown depths of the ocean, or undergoing intense training, these experiences shape who we are and provide us with stories that can inspire others. There's a saying that age is just a number, but the experiences we've had make us who we are. And sometimes, it’s these unique and memorable moments that set us apart from our peers.