Photo Finish

DATELINE:

Orlando, Florida

"We only have 110 people getting back on," said the Southwest Airlines gate agent to a flight attendant.  "It wont be a problem."

The conversation Scott bisected as he stepped away from the plane in Orlando caught him off guard. 

He thought, "I have no clue what they are talking about, but what a refreshing answer to give a tired flight attendant after a 1,000-mile trek." 

The positivity from Southwest's team is ironic.  The spirit embodies the images hidden in Scott's suitcase as they spin around on the baggage carrousel as EuroCoaster'13 comes to a close. 

While traveling through the continent of Europe, photos taken while onboard rides became a standard souvenir of the 1,951 miles traveled and now serve as a lasting reminder of the lessons learned below. 

Lesson from a 99-year-old roller coaster in Denmark:

Sometimes life gets a little rough. 

When you think you're in a dark tunnel, know that daylight can break free at any moment.  Be ready to welcome the sunlight when it hits your face.  

When it comes to taking a leap of faith at the end of a bumpy ride, jump. Most people land on their feet just fine, as did those who jumped off a moving roller coaster as their adventure ended. 

From a flume ride in Sweden:

While it may be cold, and you're tired ("I look dead!"), don't be afraid to make a splash for your spirit. Take time for you.  And never feel guilty afterward. 

From a bobsled in Germany:

Teamwork and trust is essential in any personal or professional relationship.  While some teams are a good fit, others are not. Don't be afraid to join a new team where you can again coast along. 

From a personal roller coaster in Austria:

As we climbed higher up the mountain, looking at the Alps above Imst, the tunes from "The Sound of Music" joined us via iPod with a message that too often gets lost in today's clutter:

"Climb every mountain,

Ford every stream,

Follow every rainbow,

'Till you find your dream."