The Fall

I light a cigarette and stare at what lies below me- a terrifying 55 feet drop down the side of a cliff into a pond of ice cold water.

My legs quiver then begin to tremble. Another drag, but my emotions are still running amok. An internal dialogue flares up between logic and emotion.

“No CT, don’t jump. You’re going to land wrong or hit a rock.”

“Fuck that! You came all the way here to conquer a fear, whats holding you back?”

“Play it safe. Imagine what your folks would think if they find out about this risky endeavor.”

“Fuck what they think. Make a decision on your own behalf for once.”

“I’ve been by your side for your whole life, man. When have you ever gotten hurt because of me?! Just listen to me again and you’ll be safe.”

“You’ll never grow unless you take the leap.”

“Fuck what he says. No need to change one bit you’re fine the way you are. Yea, good boy. You’re listening to me. Now slowly back away from the edg…”

I leaped, bathing in the momentary glory of conquest before gravity sends me falling.

Splash.