Borrowed Wings

 BORROWED WINGS

Memories are always embedded in our subconscious mind and they have a strange way of popping up to the forefront, maybe as a dream or just as a thought . Some memories are good and make one feel happy, while some leave you feeling uncomfortable and sad. 

One such happy memory  popped up in my mind ,one night ,in my semi slumber state . 

It was a nice bright ,windy ,sunny summer morning. I had gone for a vacation with my family to Manali . All of us being the adventurous type, decided to venture out and try the thrilling sport of Paragliding at the Solang Valley in Manali . My husband and two daughters were very eager and excited, while I was a little wary and unsure of myself. Although I take pride in my adventurous spirit, I am a little bit nervous doing adventurous activities where  my legs don’t touch the ground ( I am so grounded you see 😃). We reached the Paragliding station by rope way only to be told that due to the gusty winds, the paragliding has been stopped and will resume once the winds reduce . Silently I thanked the universe in my mind with a smile on my face . 

We waited under a tree and enjoyed the camaraderie and the ambience of the Solang valley. The valley is surrounded by snow capped mountains, lush green meadows and dense coniferous forests. The vibrant colours of the wild flowers in the summer made the environment idyllic and enchanting. The mountains air was crisp and invigorating, adding an overall sense of tranquility and rejuvenation. The sound of the rustling leaves, whistling winds and the distant gurgle of the flowing rivers created a soothing soundtrack. It was as if time had stood still . We enjoyed each other’s company in silence as we waited for the paragliding to resume. I was happy just sitting there with myself. 

Paragliding is an exhilarating adventure that allows individuals to soar through the sky , as if one has grown wings . It is an unforgettable thrill that combines the sensations of gliding , freedom and the beauty of nature . We were called for a brief orientation, once the winds reduced and the weather looked up. We were taught about the equipment, safety protocols and basic flying techniques. The gear consisted of a light weight wing( the canopy) , a harness and a reserve parachute . I reluctantly went through the whole procedure, my fear prevailing over my spirit of adventure. My daughters and my husband encouraged me and before I knew it , I had put on the entire gear and my instructor was preparing me for the launch . Ready for launch ( though not mentally ) , I ran the little distance along with my instructor and suddenly, I felt the wings lifting me off the ground . I let out a blood curling ,spine chilling scream out of fear . As my scream dissipated into the thin air, so did my fear . Soon I was soaring above hills and vales. A sense of peace and calm descended upon me as I watched , literally, with a bird’s eye view from above. Mountains, valleys, lakes, treetops, a small bustling village , I flew above it all . I was gliding smoothly into the air with my new found wings . The quiet of the sky was soothing, only interrupted by the sounds of the gushing winds . I was one with the universe. I soared through the skies with a new found sense of freedom and for a moment could feel what it meant like to be a bird, free and peaceful, no wonder they are always singing, I thought. Soon my instructor signalled me to prepare for landing . As I gently touched down upon the flat ground , I sensed a rush of adrenaline and joy. Tears flowing down from my eyes, I felt a sense of achievement , a feeling of oneness with the universe. There was a feeling of calm and a smile on my face . Paragliding for me was more than just a physical activity, it was an emotional journey that allowed me to challenge myself . An experience that gave me an incredible sense of freedom on borrowed wings .