When you think about the world we live in, regardless of place and time, life runs on the community that surrounds it. Everywhere you look is community. Whether it’s the town you live in, your neighborhood, an interest group, your work or a sport, every facet of life includes an aspect of community.
This is something I didn’t fully appreciate until I started skydiving.
The community that surrounds this sport never ceases to amaze me. Jumpers come from all backgrounds, are all ages at all skill levels, and we all have different priorities when it comes to what we want to do within the world of skydiving – whether it’s compete, instruct, or simply enjoy skydiving for what it is.
No matter the role skydiving plays in your life, there’s one thing that’s consistent in the lives of all jumpers: they are a part of this community.
So what does that mean, really? I think community is a subjective term based on how you approach it. Some people feel more involved, more obligated, more engrained than others, but at the end of the day, the skydiving community has proved, to me at least, to be one of the most incredible I’ve encountered.
Not only do skydivers understand one another (we don’t have to explain why we do what we do – not like when we’re talking to whuffos) but there’s mutual respect and understanding for fellow jumpers. This is a community that feels a sense of responsibility for its members. We are always looking out for one another, we share tips and stories that help jumpers progress in the sport, we pass along connections within the community. We taken in traveling skydivers to crash on our couches, we share rides to dropzones and boogies. hen the weather is crummy we all pile in the car and head to see a movie, or find other ways to keep our restless minds occupied…and we do it together. The skydiving community is our second family, and sometimes our jump buddies even get treated better than our blood relatives.
We all chose this sport for a reason. We all share the passion of the sky. And if you so choose, you too can be a part of this incredible community – so long as you put into it what you hope to get out. Take care of your fellow skydivers and the community will take care of you.
Love and Blue Skies!
Ashley
Perfect!
Love this blog. he community buzz in skydiving is overwhelming at times. Made some amazing friends and look forward to making many more!!! Peace, love and respect y’all. Fly safe!!
Blue ones!