The bungee jump off the bridge at Victoria Falls is one of the highest in the world. Six days before I turned 25, I jumped off that bridge. I risked a few more quarter-centuries of living for a few moments of adrenaline. There my life was hanging—quite literally—by a thread. Here is my farewell speech (and the proof that I actually did it):
(Just to clarify: Dr. Jackson is not the name of my physician or psychiatrist. She’s my beloved mentor and former religion professor.)
The worst part of the experience was the massive head rush I got on the way down. My brain felt like a giant tick, swollen with blood, about to explode. Pretty painful. The best part of the experience was being able to say I did it. Bragging rights 
Even so…jumping off this bridge was not the scariest thing I’ve ever done. There are scarier things in life. Falling in love. Moving to another country. Admitting—to myself, or to others—that I’m in a relationship with Jesus.
But it was definitely terrifying in its own right. Did you know I’m afraid of heights?
If all your friends were jumping off a bridge, would you do it too?
Getting my ankles wrapped in towels to pad them and protect them from the pull of the harness.
Commence screaming.
This is the rescue dude who comes to fetch you. I was really glad to see him:
Randy lay there like a slug. It was his only defense.
They write your weight on your arm, to help the crew know which harness to give you. I weigh one kilogram more than the girl next to me…58 total with my clothes on, if you're curious.
holy moly, sarah –
that was terrifying just to watch!!! how brave!! Hope you’re well… I think of you often!
<3 jamie
Ok now I mean this. Do not ever do anything like this again.
I am so glad you were safe! I don’t think I’ll be doing that anytime soon.
I am so proud of you.
I watched the beginning of your video twice just so I could hear you say my name.
Well I guess I’ll cross “facing death” off my list of “Things Sarah Has Never Done That We’ll Do When She Visits Me in January.”
I love you.
Wow Sarah! That was awesome.
How brave you are! I remember when I was at Victoria Falls two years ago thinking how anyone could get the courage up to do that and here you are. You are an amazing young lady! The Falls are absolutely incredible – and so is the bridge you crossed. What memories you are making!
I said “yikes” about walking across the waterfall. Now all I can say is YIKES!! And I echo the sentiments of both you’re parents.
That was GREAT!!! Do it again!
–Don
Randy lay there like a slug. It was his only defense. I LOVE IT! you’re my hero.
SARAH!!!! Nate and I watched your video in awe! I had anxiety the whole time even though I knew you survived it. Wow, that was crazy. LIke nutso. I can barely jump off the diving board at the pool.
We miss you so much and I think of you daily! Can you forgive me for being a terrible (possibly the worst) penpal? I love reading about your adventures, and I am so excited for you to see your family for Christmas. You are a good soul and I miss you.
xo,
Jess