What is Life on the High Wire?

Years ago I read a quote that’s attributed to Karl Wallenda (of the Flying Wallendas), that said, “Life exists on the high wire; everything else is just waiting,” and I thought, Exactly. So I started a blog called Life on the High Wire, where I shared my own attempts to make the most of my “one wild and precious life.”

I’ve never shied away from a big leap and have pursued my interests with gusto, mostly based on gut. Recently, a friend and I were talking about an early leap I made, where I could have so easily taken the safe path, but I’d known in my heart the tougher and riskier option was the one for me. I didn’t even question it.

My friend asked me, but how? How did you know you were doing the right thing? That everything would be okay? I realized I’d never thought about the how of it, that I’ve just always operated that way, and still do.

That conversation got me thinking about confidence and resilience, and risk. Asking myself, what is bravery? How do you know what the next right thing to do is? And how do you take all of that and create a satisfying, bold life? Where you feel stretched and invigorated, but also grounded in the knowing that you’re on the right path for your talents and passions?

I also have a theory that this bold way of living has a beautiful side effect: it reveals your unique, authentic self in all its luminous glory. And we need your light now more than ever.

My aim with this newsletter is to build a community of like-minded folks wanting to create their own version of the high wire, people who want something more for themselves, their families and communities, even the world. People who want to shine.

At the same time, I want this to be a safe place to push ourselves, to share what’s on our minds, to learn from each other, to be both inspiration and safety net. Uncovering that inner light might take some time, but I’m here and you’re here, and that’s a start.