The Roller Coaster of Life

" Life can be like a roller coaster...And just when you think you've had enough, and you're ready to get off the ride and take the calm, easy merry-go-round...You change your mind, throw your hands in the air and ride the roller coaster all over again.  That's exhilaration...that's living a bit on the edge...that's being ALIVE."

--- Copyright © 1999 Stacey Charter

Life has it's ups and downs, that's for sure.  Sometimes it feels like a roller coaster.  The climb to the top can be slow and hard, and sitting on the peak can be exhilarating.  That bird's eye view is spectacular.  You can see very clearly. Then, the quick, fast pace, going down, going around, up and down.  Life can feel crazy and hectic at times, and sometimes it is necessary for us to experience this so that we really appreciate those down times.  The merry-go-round is much more predictable, slow and methodical.  It's an easy ride and it's pleasant.  That's when our life is more routine and we are content. 

I remember a scene in the movie Parenthood (1989), where Grandma talks about the roller coaster and the merry-go-round.  I often think of this metaphor and I'd love to share it with you.  Here's the "brilliant" Grandmother scene, complete with punchline:



Roller coasters can be scary, and exhilarating.  Life can be that way sometimes, too.  It's always important to look on the bright side of life, when we are on the roller coaster of life.  Hang on, before you know it, it's time to get back on the merry-go-round.

"What a ride!"

Cheers,

~Angela