“Kick, Push,” a song by Lupe Fiasco about two star-crossed skateboarders, sums up the basic method for propelling a skateboard forward; however, the phrase can also be a metaphor for propelling your way through life.
Ranney Skate Park, a 20,000-square-foot recreation facility for people delving into the world of skateboarding and rollerblading, is nestled at 3201 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing, just east of the Frandor Shopping Center.
The facility is a welcoming space for people of all skill levels and ages, such as 18-year-old Grant “G” Alex, who came to Lansing to live with his father, a supervisor of engineering at a local hotel.
“Once I found this place, it helped me destress,” Alex said.
“It’s intimidating for the first time, but you have to learn how to go with the flow. Like life, you just go with the flow,” he added. “I had a lot of tough love growing up. The park gives me back some of my childhood.”
This wise-beyond-his-years young man has some words of advice for the younger generation: “Listen to what your parents are trying to teach you, because life is going to come up real quick on you.”
It seems that the skate park is more than just a place for people to come together for a fun sport that will have you kissing concrete as you enjoy your pastime. It will give you time to reflect on life and your place in the world.
Alex said learning a new trick on the board is a lot like learning how to go through life.
“Just take a step back and look at it,” he said. “You’ll learn to have patience, and you’ll get it. I know I was put on this earth for something, but I don’t know (what it is) yet. So, I just help others along the way.”
