Not that I have not had near death experiences before, there was one in 2020 that really threw me for a loop. There are plenty of people who have been in more horrific predicaments; so please this does not take anything away from any of you. This just taught me, along with the year 2020, that you just never know what to expect and how to react.
A Peaceful, Uneventful Day and Boom Out of Nowhere…
Much like the start of 2020 when the economy was going well, the year seemed to be progressing and life was somewhat placid. Boom, everything changed, well that was my Summer Sunday in the country. My man-friend and I were enjoying a sunny, hot, gorgeous and relaxing day. We decided to take our 4-Wheeler to this Spring we found. My friend crossed one way through it to the other side to explore. I started walking into it while holding my drink to enjoy the cool water. Next thing I know, in no time, I sunk into this “quick” sand and it was past my hips. Man friend looks at me and says, “Kirsten what are you doing? Are you sinking?”
Don’t Panic
So you know how your mind just goes to strange places during irrational times? My first thought was, of all the wild things I’ve experienced in my life this is it? I’m just going to sink in this freezing cold water and sinkhole right here in Missouri? Then I thought about my Rocket Dog® Flip Flops. They actually don’t make these ones anymore and they were so comfortable. So my man-friend says, “Do not panic, listen to me now.” He proceeded to give me instructions and I followed them precisely. To this day we both don’t remember exactly what he said, but thank God he was calm, kind and cool about it.
Face It and Move On
So, when I got out, with my flip flops miraculously intact, better yet, I was intact, I really could not even grasp what just happened. The absolute degree of my feelings was undeniable. Man friend says, “So are you gonna’ let this ruin your day or be more like a man and chuck it up to a close call?” I answered, “At least give me a moment or two, OK?” It was then when I noticed many larger animal tracks going towards the water but not coming out. Those poor unsuspecting creatures just wanting to cool off or get a drink. That was when the magnitude of my gratitude happened. My higher power allowed me to live another day.
In Conclusion, for Now
That afternoon, the most beautiful butterfly just kept following me and landed on me several times. I thought life is so very fragile but while we are on this earth, we just can’t give up. Many people are hurting right now due to our Economy taking a hit. Especially those who are in “non-essential” industries. The rules keep changing and people who want to work, are being mandated on what they can or cannot do. From a political perspective and mental angle, 2020 was tough. All I can say is don’t give up. There will be better days ahead. If you need to talk to anyone do it. You are not alone. Life itself has very sad, bad and hard-hitting moments. However, joy will come again, if you just don’t give up.
