Taking the plunge

For years I have been intrigued by the ritual of folks taking a "polar bear plunge" on January first each year.  It is a tradition that has baffled and fascinated me.  Why would anyone want to take a dip in ice cold water in the middle of winter?  I am an avid swimmer and absolutely love being in the water, but I have never been a fan of freezing, and that's what has perplexed me.

I have known for several years about the local plunge held each year and hosted by renowned artist Gary Price.  In previous years, I had considered going and watching the crazy people jump in the pond by his home in Springville, but never did make it.  This year, the event called to me, and one recent morning I woke up knowing that this was the year for me to take the plunge.  One of the best decisions I have made thus far in my life.

Stepping over and through thin sheets of ice and rushing with close friends into the murky, koi filled pond was one of the most spiritual, sensational, cathartic, exhilarating, awesome experiences of my life.  It was an initiation into the new year, a propulsion into the next phase of life.  It was a baptism from which I emerged energized, grateful, passionate and committed.  I have never felt so alive!!

I took away many lessons from those few minutes spent in icy waters.  Perhaps the most powerful message I walked away with is that the time is now.  So much time can be wasted waiting for circumstances to be better or perfect.  Opportunities are lost, dreams are unfulfilled, and goals are abandoned waiting for more amenable conditions.  Fear can stop us in our tracks, leaving us on the edge of the pond wondering what we might have missed, waiting to be brave.  The waiting is over, the time is now, I am moving forward.

I cannot imagine another New Year's day without a plunge involved.  Thank you Gary and Leesa!  Thank you brave friends!  What a great way to start off the year!  Life is beautiful, exciting and now . . . take the plunge!