July, 2003
Aaron climbed up the steel-laden ladder, and made his way up to the top of the flying trapeze. As he eyed his counterpart preparing on the other end, he just hoped that he would release with perfect timing. The Alexis Brothers Amazing Flying Circus had come to the town of Branson, Missouri for what seemed like forever. With its prize-winning performers and its famous medieval-style Big Top, it was a welcomed favorite to the surrounding communities. Even as a young boy, Aaron was always amazed at the daring feats accomplished by these performers. But now, in a strange twist of fate, he found himself in that very position he had admired.
Aaron drew an anxious breath as he thought about the task ahead. For an adult with years of training, taking hold of that fly-bar might not be a scary undertaking. But for an eleven year old boy, swinging some fifty feet off the ground, it was terrifying.
How did I get myself into this mess in the first place?Aaron thought, as he stood perched high above the waiting crowd.
He looked towards the grandstand and shaded his eyes from the glare of the spotlight, and scanned the row of family and friends. Sitting next to his family he saw the reason why he found himself in this position – Megan Taylor.
Megan and Aaron had been best friends since they first met in kindergarten playing near the swings. Aaron had defended her against some bullies trying to steal the swing away from her. Though
