In 1964, Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond thrillers, wrote a popular children’s book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. In it, his character Commander Pott gave advice that Bond might approve: “Never say ‘no’ to adventures. Always say ‘yes,’ otherwise you’ll lead a very dull life.”
I wanted to avoid a dull life at all costs. As a college freshman, I met a polite, presentable graduating senior who had survived a terrible car accident that had taken another passenger’s life. It made John (not his real name) serious and eager to settle down. We’d met through mutual friends attending a Christian gathering and then took in a campus movie or two, nothing more. One day, I received a book of poetry from him by mail along with a marriage proposal. John was pleasant and had a predictable and successful future in accounting ahead of him. He phoned asking if his package had been delivered and to hear my answer. I was not close to ready to settle down so dug deep for the right words to let him down easy. Instead, I’ve asked God to give me an adventurous life where I would never be bored.
I’m thankful He gave what I asked for. We must aim at destinations in order to reach them. Have I told you about the hot air balloon ride my older son and I shared? No? But wait—that’s a topic for a later post. Still, maybe the background music to this post should be the lead song from The 5th Dimension’s album, Up-Up and Away” which starts, “Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon?”
What gains your personal vote? Safety? Or Adventure? Share any experience on the adventurous side that has kept your life from being boring.
Knowing what you do since then, would you do it again? Why or why not? What haven’t you done yet that you would like to do?
I’m happy with my life choices so far, ups, downs, and all!
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