I held the edge of the fabric high while a large fan blew the air into the cavernous inside. It was surprising how quickly the balloon filled.
She showed us "helpers" how to clip on the basket and where to tie the ropes. It's all surprisingly simple and low tech -- except of course for the bursts of flame that with a whoosh heat the air and stretch the fabric.
Soon, I felt the balloon begin to tug the rope in my hand. It won't be long.
With a broad smile, she nodded. It was time to let go. The balloon quickly shot into the air, separating it from all ties of earth.
My face leaning backward in the morning sun, I wanted to be the one in the balloon. To float away, watching the earth slowly disappear with nothing but the sound of the wind in my ears.
Those of us left behind clutched the business card in our hands. "Call this number for the ride of your life."
Yes, one day.
Later that day was supposed to be the end of the world. Although everyone dismissed Harold Camping as a matter of theology and practicality, deep inside I secretly wished he were right.
It would be a chance to say goodbye to trouble, to fear, to sickness and pain. A last hurrah to all of this.
But here I am, standing on the earthen ground, watching the orbs float in the distance. Thinking. Dreaming. One day, I'll fly.
6 comments so far - add yours here:
I about cried reading this! So amazing!
Me, too, David. Me, too.
Yes, one day you will, indeed, fly away. But not now. You still have work to do....your blog is an excellent, productive ministry for Him. Keep writing, my friend.
I can not wait for that day to fly away! Great post, love it!
There is a state park near where my daughter went to college and one can take a hot air balloon ride over the gorge in the park. I've been wanting to do that for years! Read this yesterday but couldn't comment. Needed to write about my own experience in learning to look forward to that day when I'll fly away. Praying now, "Come quickly, Lord Jesus."
What a great post. I'm with you. It will be wonderful to "fly away."
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