Have you ever been to a place so magical that everything else seems to pale in comparison? Well, that’s how I felt when I went to the Fort Worth Water Gardens.
I’ve lived in Texas for a couple of months now, but being at the Water Gardens felt like a new start. I’ll admit, a lot of that had to do with the fact I was there with my little sister and her best friend. That’s especially true given it was the first time in 31 years that my sister and I spent her birthday together. As you can imagine, there’s a lot I want to say right now, but I’m still trying to find the words to be honest with you. But, I’ll share more of that story another day. Promise.
About the Fort Worth Water Gardens
For now, know that the Water Gardens were breathtaking. Entering the 4.5 acre park was a lot like entering Central Park after hopping off the C train. You know that sense of calm you get after leaving the hustle and bustle of the city? It’s like that. Simply put, the beautiful oasis, which is a short walk from downtown Fort Worth, was awe-inspiring.
Perspective was the main thing I found at the Water Gardens. But, the water installations offered so much more. At my favorite installation — a canyon-like feature with floating stairs — I learned a lesson about joy.
The View From the Forth Worth Water Gardens
As I stood at the top of the structure, watching the water rush to the center, a small part of me wanted to retreat. Though there were stairs, they didn’t look safe. They wrapped around the installation and from the looks of it, they got smaller the closer you got to the center. Thoughts like, “what if I fall?” and “don’t drop your phone,” ran through my mind.
But.
Some things you do simply to say you did it. So, with each step, I reminded myself “you can do this,” which started off as a whisper. Then, as my sneakers gripped the rest of the steps, it became more of a proclamation.
I made it down to the bottom before my sister and her BFF, which gave me time to take it all in. I found peace in the sound of the water rushing throughout the installation. I began daydreaming as I watched the water pool to the center. Yes, I even basked in the thought that “I did that” despite my initial fear. And as I stood there with the largest waterfall at my back, I realized that joy truly is on the other side of fear. I was at peace standing there alone with only the sounds of the water to keep me company. And I wouldn’t have experienced that without taking those floating steps.
I love that I was able to share that lesson (and memory) with my little sister.
