Free Diving

-Not quite diving like when I was younger.

Decades ago, in a time before the internet and far from any ocean with seasoned deep free divers, I tried my hand at diving in a chilly Wyoming lake.

Starting with just snorkeling a few meters down, I soon discovered a serene tranquility, a feeling of unity with the water. Relaxing and going with the flow, I found myself motionless on the lake bottom, feeling no urgent need to breathe.

This surprise brought me immense joy! Without much knowledge, I experimented with techniques to expand my lung capacity, wanting to go deeper and stay longer.

There’s a significant issue, though. Incremental risk can be easily mistaken for total risk, especially when pushing one’s limits. Unfortunately, the outcomes of such endeavors are often tragic.

With what I know now, my version of “deep” would barely get a free diver’s feet wet. It’s a miracle I didn’t end up facing a more dire fate.

Armed with these essential facts, particularly the “Big No’s,” my chances of survival would have been higher.

But back then, these resources weren’t readily available 50 years ago. What I thought was careful skill development was, in reality, sheer luck.

The allure of deep diving still captures my imagination. Living near the ocean and having access to free diving resources, I occasionally contemplate revisiting that youthful challenge and exploring greater depths.

However, 50 years later, I face a different challenge—not one of depth and drowning but of aging. I might be too old, out of shape, or too cautious to dive deep. And perhaps, I’m hesitant to confirm that reality. Or maybe I’m overcompensating for the recklessness of my youth.

Regardless, I’ll continue fearlessly enjoying snorkeling, floating, and drifting in the ocean, much like the mesmerizing scenes in the latter part of this video.

It truly is magical.

And even a wise, balding, and slightly portly old man like me can savor those moments. 🙂

✨

With the wisdom of the ages and the sparkle of adventure in my heart, D 🌴🌊