Tempting Death

I almost killed myself a few days ago. It happens every year or so. I enjoy high speed driving and keep my voyages as thrilling as when I was a teenager, one of just a few lifelong pleasures. As I performed my patented acceleration into the curve, my speed was about 80kmh above the recommended limit. Deep into the diminishing radius ramp (with GGL lecturing with a wagging finger), the car started slipping. Traction control kicked in and a quick steering correction saved the situation from disaster.

Each time I nearly perish, I reflect on my serenity that both saves me with relaxed instinctive action, and is clear headed afterward in understanding what went wrong and was averted. After the danger has passed, I keep a straight face for a few seconds before powerful laughter overtakes me. Calmness toward horrors allows one to see fully. These rich truths are only won by those who do not flinch or avert their eyes. Even the ugly and terrible is worth seeing because nothing should ever be off limits to those capable of handling it.