It’s a Dogs Life 44

Well, I lived.

It was harrowing.

I needed all my concentration and forbarence.

A quest of mind over matter, keeping the end goal clearly in sight.

Focus, very precise focus, and the many years of endurance that I could call on.

That’s how it’s done.

That’s how I survived unscathed through the 90 minute team bulding seminar.

I mock, but I mock myself.

Very clearly the majority of (rather younger) participants, had come in groups from this office, that department, that class… as “teams”.

And in fairness the presenters/teachers/organisers/sensii?? spoke well and gave an amusing and insightful presentation.

The predictable lengthy legal disclaimer – unavoidable in this day and age, a brief look at the origons of “western” the Firewalk (a surprisingly recent phenomenon). A considerable talk on personal development. Rather too much team building cheering and high fiving for my taste (Bah! I say). A few brief instructions on the actual walk – of which I still managed to forget one! (not fatal).

Oh and a quick coating of asbestos…….

NO I JEST!!

The coals are real and genuinely hot (measured over 850 Farenheit just after the last walker). The only “protection” is in the laws of thermodynamics and a brisk steady, focused, movement.

I return from the flames to assure you that the only “trickery” is perhaps in the minds of the participants.

I am perhaps too old and too cynical to be part of “team building”, at least as it is commonly seen in these times. And in truth, I entered the scheme, and the coals themselves with nary a quam. “Well done” “How brave”, these are undeserved facebook aclamations, with my track record there was nothing to fear.

“Well Done” I reserve in this case for each of you who supported and help raise nigh £700 for a very good cause.

I bow, and thank you all, a fabulous acheivement, and I’m happy to have played my small part.

I am perhaps, more challenged, by a question from the “personal development” section of the seminar ; what has this experience taught me about myself? and I don’t have an answer….yet.

Next week in IaDL : – New wild scheme required, apply within….