Pursuing Circus Life: A Dream or a Reality?
Have you ever dreamt of running away to join a circus? The idea is often romanticized in movies and stories, evoking images of exciting, creative, and unique adventures. However, the harsh reality of circus life involves rigorous training, constant travel, and hard work. This article delves into the aspects that draw people to this lifestyle and shares some insightful experiences.
Personal Reflections and Memories
I've never had an inclination to join a circus. However, my late wife once aspired to be a circus fat lady, a role she would have excelled in given her figure and outgoing personality. While the opportunity was limited due to the declining popularity of sideshows, my wife's idea carried some merit. She reasoned that if people gawk and make rude comments in public, she could earn money for it. Although it was a hard argument to refute, the circus life was not for her, as it would be a form of degradation. Her experience could have been enjoyable, but it's tough to justify such scenarios.
Career Considerations and Realities
One career path that captivated my interest and imagination was becoming a circus elephant trainer. However, after meeting some renowned circus trainers at a zoo I worked at, I realized that I lacked the right personality for it. Instead, I opted for steady income from zoos, which was more reliable. Circuses are now experiencing a decline, and performers are leaving for real-life opportunities.
A Personal Dive into Circus Life
A few years ago, when I was 22, I left a well-paying sales management job to join a circus in Florida. The initial months were fascinating. I enjoyed performing and did it every day. Initially, I was content with living in a semi-truck, sleeping in a three-tiered bed made from particle board and 2x4s. The daily circus food and rigorous exercise burned off calories, but life started to unveil its challenges about a month into it.
My living situation was less than ideal. The people I lived with were, for the most part, deadbeats. They had run away from abusive pasts, seeking thesecurity and excitement of a performer’s life, even though it often involved deep emotional trauma. Over time, I realized that performing in a circus was a dead-end choice. Although it was a lot of fun, it wasn’t what I wanted long-term. After three months, I decided to return home and get a "real" job. Looking back, I don’t regret my time in the circus; it was enjoyable, and I learned valuable lessons. However, for me, it wasn’t the right path.
Responsibly Approaching Circus Life
If you’re considering joining a circus, I advise approaching the decision responsibly. While performing can be a rewarding path, it is not without challenges. Make sure your motivations are pure and driven by a love for performing rather than escaping an abusive past. If you're drawn to circus life because you enjoy performing, and not because you're running from something, it might just be the right choice for you.
In conclusion, the allure of joining a circus is undeniable, but the realities can be daunting. Each person must critically evaluate their motivations and readiness to face the challenges before making a decision. Circus life can be an adventure, but it requires a deep understanding of the implications and a genuine passion for the craft.