
Photograph by Kapalua Ziplines
I have never been a fan of the idea of having a “bucket list.” It always gave me the feeling of having a “bucket” that is emptying as we cross items off the list of things we want to do, learn, or experience before we die. I want my life to be a series of never-ending adventures. I want to be constantly learning new things – big or small, whether here or there, or anywhere life takes me. The list never ends. Things may get added. Things may drop off. There may be plans. There may be accidental discoveries. It may take a few minutes, months, or years to get there but new adventures will be discovered along the way.

Ready! Set! Go! Photograph by Kapalua Ziplines, Maui, HI
On a recent trip to Maui, I seized the moment to experience the thrill of ziplining! I joined a six-line 2.5-hour zipline tour with https://www.kapaluaziplines.com/ It was amazing! As with all things in life, it served as a lesson in so many ways. You are seized with fear the first moment you push off the platform. But then – your world opens in front of you, and you are aware of how big and beautiful the world can be. The fear slips away, and you take it all in and say to yourself “Yes, I can do this.” Then, you know you can take this feeling and find something new to conquer. Check out the video below! I am the tiny person coming in “hot” on the right! Find your “zipline” and jump off feet first then move on to the next adventure on this journey of your amazing life!

Photograph by Kapalua Ziplines, Maui, HI
Clolita,
I love this column. I have many things I want to do and others I will cross things off as I go along. And add more. The things I add are becoming easier, simpler.
A recurring theme for me recently has been acceptance. This began with an article submitted to our writing group about the imminent end of the world as the sun rapidly burns out. At the beginning of the story a young mother becomes frantic about the impending death of her son and herself. By the end of the story she is cuddling with her son in bed, determined to protect her son as long as she can, but she is at peace.
It reminded me of the movie, “On the Beach” with Gregory Peck and Ava Garden, stuck in Australia at the end of a nuclear holocaust with the radiation cloud slowly advancing on Australia. Very chilling, but everyone involved came to accept the inevitable. Scared the bejesus out of me when I first saw it in 1960. Back then we still practiced nuclear attack regimens. I was 16 and will never forget it.
[Edited for prvacy reasons – Clolita]
By the way, I went zip-lining about five years ago. Sailing over the Tennessee hills was awesome. I loved it and I love you!
Dolly
Dolly,
Thank you so much for sharing this and reading my post. I remember when I first met you and then had pleasure of working with you through professional organizations I have adored you and your spirit. It took a “minute” but I am so glad we reconnected in this way and at this point in our lives. It’s like coming full circle.
I love your spirit and the things we share in our very different yet very similar lives. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing you continued peace along with many more of those glorious smiles of yours.
Clolita