Within Kharkiv’s Gorky Park is a Cableway. Originally built as a two-person transportation link between worker homes and an aircraft manufacturing facility, it is now used as an aerial ride to view the park. Most kids have been there, done that, but for parents and tourists like me, it is a welcomed way to escape and see the park from a different perspective.
In contrast to traditional western security standards, this is well-manned, but “you are on your own” to step into the moving car and secure the door after you. It is not designed for the faint of heart. Be quick, step to it and everything will be ok!
As we were completing the outbound leg, the moving landing spot was just a u-shaped turn away from the return leg beginning. A father with a young child in his arms who was not looking forward to the ride waited. Everyone could hear how she felt! Terrified and desperately wanting to be anywhere but here, was just the beginning. It was as if I was witnessing the modern child version of the old psalmist cry for help; “I cry out, God, call out: ‘You’re my last chance, my only hope for life!’” (Psalm 142.5).
At times, I find myself in the young girl’s place. For a host of grounded reasons combined with my fears, uncertainties, and doubts, I am terrified. I do not want to take another step! Yes, I know Divinity is with me, but it all seems too much!
I have no secret formula to dial back your fear or my own. I do know that in my acknowledgement of my fear, I give myself permission to do something about it. Otherwise, I am paralyzed. I also know that as often as I have positively moved through and beyond, there are certain situations which never get easier. Even now, I am exhausted as I think of the terror in that step. Life can be very overwhelming. The best I can do is scream and step forward in faith. Divinity is always with us.
