Unless that Plane is Crashing, I’m Not Jumping Out of It

Summary

Ellie Jacobson reflects on the idea of absolute certainty in actions, using the metaphor of skydiving to explore personal limits and the nuances of making definitive statements about one's actions in extreme hypothetical situations.

Abstract

In a thought-provoking piece, Ellie Jacobson discusses the concept of "never" doing something, particularly in the context of skydiving. She admits that while she would generally refuse to jump out of a plane, she acknowledges that life's unpredictability allows for exceptions, such as a plane crash scenario. Jacobson delves into the complexities of making firm statements about one's actions, citing examples like never killing or hurting someone, or never giving up, and then providing personal anecdotes that challenge these absolutes. She concludes by inviting readers to contemplate their own unyielding positions and to share their thoughts on the matter, as part of the Refresh the Soul 30-day writing challenge.

Opinions

Ellie Jacobson initially states she would never jump out of a plane, but then considers that she might if the situation were dire enough, such as a plane crash.
She believes in the possibility of exceptions to any rule, suggesting that the phrase "never say never" holds true in life's unpredictable nature.
Jacobson challenges the absoluteness of statements like "I would never kill someone" or "I would never hurt someone," recognizing that circumstances like protecting a child could lead her to act contrary to these assertions.
She admits to having given up on herself in the past, despite a personal belief in perseverance, highlighting the gap between ideals and reality.
Ellie encourages readers to examine their own definitive stands and to engage with the writing challenge, fostering a community of reflection and shared experiences.

Day six of the Refresh the Soul 30-day writing challenge

What is one thing you would never do and why?

The first thing that popped into my head in reaction to this question is….jump out of a plane. Because.

Do I need a reason why?!

Okay, maybe I would if I had a parachute and it was about to crash. But does that ever actually happen in real life? To someone other than Tom Cruise.

I don’t think I can say never to anything. Because there is always an exception.

Isn’t there?

I can say, “I would never kill someone.” But if someone was attacking one of my children, then yes, I would kill for my child.

I would never hurt someone. But I’m sure I have by my words or actions at some point in my life. I’m not perfect.

I would never give up. But I have. I have given up on myself many times throughout my life. I married someone I shouldn’t have, settling for less. The only reason I got out of it was the other person wanted a divorce. I didn’t want to give up, but I had no choice when the other person decided he was done.

But honestly, I do feel comfortable saying I wouldn’t jump out of a plane. Even if I had a parachute. Even if it was falling out of the sky.

But then never say never. I do like a good challenge.

About the Writer

Ellie is a freelance writer and editor from Minnesota. She is writing her first novel, a psychological suspense novel, while finishing her MFA at SNHU.

Need writing inspiration? Check out Sparks, Ellie’s newsletter filled with Medium writing prompts to spark your creativity.

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September 6, 2022

Unless that Plane is Crashing, I’m Not Jumping Out of It

Day six of the Refresh the Soul 30-day writing challenge

What about you?

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About the Writer