The High Ropes

On the 22nd of March, the ferry set out at approximately 9:30 in the morning. Everyone knew the reason: Group Two of BBI were headed straight to Motutapu Island camp. The gray water splashed against the side of the ferry. Choppy waves hurled themselves forward, only to turn into ripples that melted into the gloomy water.

At last, after thirty minutes the ferry boarded onto the wharf at Motutapu. Snatching a few bites and a refreshing drink of water, we started to trek our way up to the camp.

One hour later, two hundred tired students flopped down on the ground and started gobbling down lunch.

After a brief explanation about the camp we grabbed our gear bags an walked to our dorms.

Several minutes later, we gathered together on the deck where we ate lunch and began walking off to our first activity with our group. Our was high ropes. The proud yet simple construction loomed over us, casting a long, black shadow stretching across the grass. The instructor handed out harnesses and helmets. The first person started to climb and we held our breath and waited for out turns.

Finally, after patiently waiting, not to mention almost letting the rope be dragged along the ground because I was distracted by the flying kiwi, it was my turn. The handles were slippery from other people's sweat but I managed to haul myself onto the log. Blood was pounding in my ears but I refused to climb back down. I wanted to see the scenery and have a breath-taking experience. This would be the first exciting activity I had one in months. My feet firmly clung onto the log as I clambered over to the other side, but it wasn't over yet. Making my way towards the middle, I can't help but grin in triumph.

The day came and went quickly. After dinner one thought kept popping up in my mind. If the high ropes were challenging enough, then what do I have to face in the next few days? As I thought this over, my best friend's words came back into my mind. "You can never do your best at something. When there's a triumph, there's always room to improve."

A breeze blew past and I shrugged. I was ready for anything.

by Judy