My grade 9 graduation trip was a transformative, unforgettable experience.
While it appeared to be all fun-and-games, it was actually the microcosm of
life ahead.
We went to Lihpao Discovery Land theme park for the graduation trip. My
friends and I first tried the Energy Storm, a huge mechanical swing that
utilized air pressure to achieve extremely high speeds, at some point even
turning completely upside down! My heart was pounding out of my chest
when I looked up and saw solid ground instead of the clear sky.
Next, we took a boat ride along a stream. The experience, unlike the swing,
didn’t induce an adrenaline rush but was instead relaxing and calming. We
admired the beauty of nature while the splashing water and rustling leaves
accompanied us through the tranquil ride.
We then split off to tour the park on our own. I bought myself a sweet and
icy popsicle and strolled around the park. I saw many more rides along the
way, some of which I tried, some of which not, and in the end, we
reconvened and shared with each other all the fun rides we had. Though we
didn’t take the same rides, we all had fun.
Sometimes, our life can become so crazy, as if everything has been squeezed
together, without a chance to breathe; other times, our life can become
quite mundane, as if we are on autopilot every day, and nothing ever
changes. More importantly, every decision we make carries with it an
opportunity cost, meaning we will inevitably miss out on the things we didn’t
choose.
But just like that Energy Storm, with intense action comes excitement; just
like the boat ride, with quiet times comes relaxation. And the things we
missed out? We have each other to fill the gaps.
Who would have thought a trip to the theme park could embody so much of
life’s meaning? For that reason, it is, and will always be, the most
unforgettable trip in my life.