Just Do It.

To fall or not to fall? Definitely a pressing question on all of our minds. Due to the general strike taking place throughout Greece, yesterday's activities were rescheduled and we were free to do whatever we wanted--of course excluding activities using public transportation, businesses, and stores. So, left with the options of staying at the hotel or heading to the beach, we naturally found ourselves facing blue waters and sunny skies.

While lying on the rocky sand, I had much time to think about the upcoming activities and experiences we will be presented with at Global LEAD. There we were, Thursday. Just two days away from our free week and only one week from our bungee jumping excursion. So many options. So many choices. At first it was an easy decision for me, "Well, I would jump off the bridge. No problem. Forwards? Backwards? Tandem? Whichever. But the only time offered is during the off week and I'll be in Italy. Next time." However, while planning for our week of adventure in the world of pizza and pasta, traveling to Rome seemed like less and less of an option, and climbing Mount Olympus emerged as an optimal alternative.

So, here we are ready to hike through the highest terrain Greece has to offer (the planning of which still has a long way to go before tomorrow), but our journey will end with plenty of time to return and join the group as they free fall into the trenches. Great. Out of excuses. Back to square one. Should I just jump?

It's not so much the jump that scares me. It's my fear of what I would miss out on if I was one of the unlucky cases who got hurt during the fall. I consider myself an adventurous person and the adventure aspect of Global LEAD has been a huge draw to this program for me. Yet, here I am debating what should be a simple decision. Throughout our travels thus far, Global LEAD has encouraged us to try new things, overcome our fears, and push ourselves to our limits. There is no doubt that bungee jumping would be a true testament to my efforts of engaging in LEAD's suggestions. So why am I still unsure?

I have always thought that "Just Do It" is a motto to live by. Get out there, try new things, and take a chance on what you may like. Whether it is trying a different food, driving a new road, or making a friend-- Just Do It! But, for this decision, I cannot just do it. As much as I know I would love the catch in my stomach and the thrill of the fall, I cannot just jump. For this decision, I need to step back before I can just fall forward.

Jessie Friedrich