Jumping in Puddles - University of Valley Forge

Jumping in Puddles

Jumping in Puddles

You see it there; reflecting the gray sky, sparkling in what little light it can find, and you just know it’s deeper than it looks. A small smile quirks your lips and you think, “Boy, what a splash that would make.” But, like a civilized person – an adult – you step around it. Your shoes remain pristine, the puddle undisturbed, and the world goes on like always.

But what would have happened if you had given into that primal urge to take a running start and leap feet first into the unknowable depths of that puddle? If you had watched the droplets splatter out, catch the sun, and reflect tiny rainbows? Would you have seen a glimpse of beauty? Felt a glimmer of joy deep inside you? Maybe you would have quickly glanced in every direction to make sure no one saw you, that no one was laughing at you. Or perhaps you would have been embarrassed, put your head down, and hoped you soon forgot the whole thing. My guess is most of us wouldn’t jump in a puddle in the first place. Why? Because it’s silly, of course. It’s not worth the soaked shoes, damp pant legs, and looks from strangers.

But it sure is a lot of fun.

When did image become more important than enjoyment? When did embarrassment become a standard unit of measure? And the real question: is doing that silly thing you love truly not worth it? When I see a puddle and find myself in a jumping mood, I don’t give it a second thought. I leap, I splash, and I ignore the people watching. I laugh out loud and love every second. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Of course, it takes practice. Just six months ago, I wouldn’t have dared to do anything that could be considered “strange.” Then something changed: I realized that my happiness was my responsibility, and I certainly wasn’t going to let anything stop me. You have to train yourself to disregard the glances, and build up the courage, too. Luckily, there are dozens of opportunities every day to unleash the silliness trapped inside you. Start small or start alone, but when you find something you love, don’t ignore it – do it.

So, jump in puddles. Dance when your favorite song comes on in the grocery store. Skip through the parking lot. Hurdle as many stairs as you dare at the bottom of the staircase. Love every second.

Go for it.

 

 

Written by Olivia Gordon