Yesterday I went to Universal Studios Hollywood after almost five years since my last visit.
To me, it isn't just a theme park--I am deeply fascinated with and drawn to Old Hollywood history, so this property to me is about more than just going on rides.
Although... you know what?
I went on the Revenge of the Mummy roller coaster and oh, man...!
Let's get this clear: I am not a roller coaster fan to begin with; the only reason I went on this particular one was because I'd been on it in the past after hearing it wasn't so bad, and had a very smooth experience on it. I didn't feel like I was going to get thrown off or like I was being dragged around very forcibly.
Yesterday however, was a different story.
Not only was the attraction slightly, but noticeably, bumpier since I'd last been on it, if I remember correctly they've changed the harness that comes down over the shoulders to hold riders securely in place into that lap bar that is positioned between the legs instead.
If they indeed did, that would explain the sensation that came over me the moment the ride picked up speed and proceeded into the sharp dips that I find most terrifying on roller coasters.
The first time I went on the ride in 2005, I went to Universal by myself yet I wanted to get right back on Revenge of the Mummy since I didn't experience the usual uneasiness that swirls in my stomach when I'm on a fast-paced thrill ride. Yesterday though, my sweetheart was right beside me and even held my hand throughout the trip through Imhotep world, but that I'm-gonna-get-tossed-off-of-this-ride feeling was there.
Even The Simpsons attraction that took the place of the awesome Back to the Future ride has more violent motions and wilder, trippier visuals than its predecessor.
I bet that Universal founder Carl Laemmle (he founded the company in 1912) didn't have any idea it all would be what it is today!
While I'm not complaining--I'm merely observing--I find it interesting to ponder that if these are all supposed to be upgrades reflecting general preferences, does that mean the masses want a rowdier and more raucous experience of life these days? Maybe part of the explanation is, with all the stimuli and noise surrounding us we've simply become desensitized that we have to be shaken quite a bit to differentiate our theme park visits from our everyday lives.
I've always been hypervigilant so thrill rides have never been my thing (I appreciate the story-driven Disney theme park attractions any day over anything designed to scare riders half to death), but since many people I know have gotten more sensitive in that their empathy has increased in even just the last year alone, I am curious--what do fellow empaths feel when on a tremulous, wild theme park attraction?
I hope you're enjoying your ride through life!
~Lea
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