Jamie's Corner: Whitewater Rafting

In the movies, I am not the elegant lady that walks down the stairs and charms her guests with grace and beauty. I am the one that trips on her gown, spills wine on her new dress and tries to carry on a conversation with spinach stuck in between her teeth. Years ago, it used to affect my sense of self and make my depression worse. But I no longer see it that way. A writer once told me anything that does not go smoothly in life makes for a good story. I agree. And I have lots of stories.

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My story this week: Whitewater Rafting 

I have not had the opportunity to travel much or participate in a variety of activities. My hope is that one day I can cross off some of the places and items on my bucket list. One item on my list is Whitewater Rafting. While I am a good swimmer, and competed competitively in grade school and high school, this is one activity I have not tried. One day while looking up this activity, I decided to look at the classification system. Because for my first time, I definitely plan to try a beginner run. After all, I am looking for fun, not life-threatening. 

The classification system is called the International Scale of River Difficulty and was established by the American Whitewater Association. 

As I was looking at this system, I started to think, wouldn't it be great if this type of scale was used in everyday life situations? 

So, I use this classification scale to apply to some examples in everyday life. Maybe ISRD should stand for Is this Situation Really Difficult? 

Just FYI, the International Scale of River Difficulty makes the general assumption that you know how to swim. (I guess this makes sense. Does it really make sense to go in a raft for entertainment if you can't swim?) 

There are 6 classes from Easy (expect to have a great time) to Extreme (you better have completed your will and your Advanced Health Care Directive). 

Class I: Easy

The waves are small, predictable, with few obstructions or obstacles to get in your way. This type of river is low risk. 

This is like looking for a McDonald's Restaurant off the freeway in any decent sized city. 

Class II: Novice

The waves are moderate in size, less predictable. might take some maneuvering around obstacles but is still relatively low risk.

This might be like convincing a toddler to go to the park or ice cream cone.

Class III: Intermediate

The waves are moderate and irregular. There are some tight passages or obstacles to go around. If you are inexperienced, a guide is recommended. The risk is low-moderate.

This makes me think of trying to wrap holiday gifts (with lots of boxes and string) while taking care of kittens.

Class IV: Advanced 

These rapids are intense, powerful but predictable. It has mostly narrow, tight passages. The risk is moderate to high.

In everyday life, this is akin to jumping on the freeway in Los Angeles at 5:00pm the day before Thanksgiving to go to Costco for groceries. You'll probably survive but you may wonder at times. 

Class V: Expert

The rapids are extremely long, obstructed, or very violent. It is dangerous and rescue is difficult.

This is like traveling to Las Vegas from California to celebrate New Year's Eve. Ice in the mountains and traffic may make your trip treacherous and challenging. And that's even before you bet all your money away at the first casino you come to!

Class VI: Extreme and Exploratory Rapids

These types of rapids are rarely attempted. They are difficult, unpredictable, and dangerous. It is life-threatening and rescue is usually impossible. 

Attempting these rapids is like bringing two-year-old twins to stand in line to see Santa Claus on December 24th after skipping nap time and dinner. (You see, no sane person would even attempt this. It just isn't done).