I went flying today...well not flying exactly, but close enough. Paragliding and with one of the most spectacular backdrops to accompany me...the Swiss Alps.
There was no fear or even apprehension, just a desire to fly. First Z, then E, Ali too until it was at last my turn. Lucky last!
Running with my pilot Robert down the slope before the wind caught the chute and the ground gave way beneath my feet until there was nothing but air between me and the ground.
As the current picked us up and lifted us highter I looked around and was awestruck by the sheer beauty of the Alps, the lakes with Interlaken inbetween, the Jungfrau towering above us in the distance, its white peaks gleaming in the morning light after two days of fresh snow covering.
The sound and feeling of the wind rushing past, the tug of the chute as the wind caught us and guided us toward the approaching hill, Robert expertly manouvering us around the hill using the currents to gain more height passing backwards and forward across the hill's rock face. Never once did I feel afraid - invigorated, breathless, awestruck and amazed - but never afraid.
All too soon it was time to descend to our landing spot in the middle of Interlaken, passing close enough to buildings and hotels I could see people on balconies drinking beer and wine.
A few tricks on the way down before the ground once again rose up to meet us. Three steps and it was over. The journey complete.
The exhileration I experienced from the journey continued far into the afternoon. A few photos taken by Robert on our way down a lasting physical reminder of the morning flight.
The memories no doubt will linger on from my first flying experience...but definitely not my last!
