PANIC IN THE HIGH SEAS: UNEXPECTED STORIES EVERYWHERE
I am out on a snorkeling adventure in the beautiful blue green waters of Key West, and excited to see some cool tropical fish. I've been snorkeling many times, so I am not in the least bit apprehensive.
I am looking forward to maybe even having a story or two about the adventure, though somewhat skeptical as usually nothing very out of the ordinary occurs for me when snorkeling.
The captain and assistants tell us that the waters are a bit choppy but if you can swim, you will be fine. So, I think. I'll be fine.
We line up on the boat, and take turns jumping into the deep water - something I've never done, as usually I take the ladder. I hold my breath, and Into the water I go.
Once I find myself back to the surface of the water, something is very different from my past snorkeling adventures. The water is not just choppy, it is damn aggressive. I am flailing about, water getting into my mouth, the current is strong and I get pulled down. I look around, and see none of my boat mates, and I’m unable to breath normally.
The beauty of the underwater world surrounds me, but as I drift into deeper waters, the current grows stronger. I feel the pull, and anxiety begins to bubble up. My mind races: "What if I can’t stay afloat? What if something goes wrong?" This cascade of worry leads me to a full-blown panic attack, making it difficult to think clearly or take appropriate action - I have trouble getting the tube into my mouth, and I can't inflate my vest. Although I can see the boat, and know that if I am in real trouble I am supposed to wave my arms over my head, I worry that I won't have time to be rescued as the water's pull is so strong.
Fortunately I see my husband is close by and, in a labored voice, I say "I do not like this" (a big understatement). "I want to go back." He swims closer to me and helps me swim back to the boat, a trip that feels like hours.
When I finally get back to the boat, I look back and see that I hardly even swam the boat's distance. Other snorkelers come back soon after me, most gasping and out of breath, many having ingested a lot of water.
It was a scary mess - and it took me close to 30 minutes until my breath was normal again.
So I didn't think I would have a story from the day' snorkeling - but it just goes to show you, the best stories happen when you least expect them!
How to mine for stories:
Reflect on Personal Experiences
Think about the memorable moments in your life, like that hilarious family reunion or the time you faced your biggest fear. Writing these down can help uncover the stories hidden in your past.
Observe Daily Interactions
Everyday moments, like a funny chat with a friend or a surprising encounter at the coffee shop, can be great story material. Stay curious and enjoy the little things—they often make the best stories.
Explore Hobbies and Interests
Dive into your hobbies! Whether it's a crazy adventure on a hiking trail or a quirky experience at a local art class, your passions are full of fun and inspiring stories waiting to be told.