Lauren Baer

The Wonder of Circus

As a child, our sense of adventure is unhindered by fear. Do you remember the feeling of the wind whooshing over you as you were pushed on the swings? Rolling down hills and landing in a giggling heap at the bottom? Jumping, cartwheeling, and climbing trees? Life as an adult leaves little time for these small joys. Over time we gain trepidation over new experiences, fear of getting hurt, of looking silly. Day to day stress prevents us from taking time to just enjoy the world around us. If you had asked me two years ago the last time I had felt a childlike sense of freedom, I wouldn’t have had an answer for you. But I’ve found a place that lets me feel that exhilaration — along with accomplishment, inspiration, and community. It’s the Circus.