Garrett Gee Defends Controversial Cliff Jump Video Amidst Parenting Backlash
Social media personality Garrett Gee is addressing the uproar that followed his action of tossing his son from a high point.
“I concur with those who viewed the video in isolation,” Gee stated to People in a discussion released on Saturday, September 27. “‘It appears awful, and this father is over-exerting his child.’ However, individuals who have tracked our experiences over time recognize the careful and prudent approach we take in our parenting.”
During July, Gee — the creator behind The Bucket List Family profile, boasting over 3 million Instagram followers — gained widespread attention after seemingly encouraging his son to leap into Lake Powell's waters. Subsequently, Gee personally propelled the young boy from the precipice.
“This does NOT constitute parenting guidance,” Gee noted in his accompanying text. “I do NOT recommend attempting this. Furthermore, this is NOT a practice we employ with all our children. Every child is distinct, hence our methods of parenting, disciplining, and instructing on HOW TO CLIFF JUMP vary considerably. Assuredly, the primary focus is safety. Second is realizing that YOU ARE CAPABLE OF CHALLENGING FEATS. Third is ENJOYING YOURSELF.”
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He proceeded, “Regarding our utmost concern, safety... We brought our youngest, Cali, to a cliff elevation we deemed secure for him. The primary hazard would genuinely be if he paused, failed to leap far enough, and descended the cliff face. Therefore, for enhanced safety, since he desired to jump but lacked assurance... I propelled him. In time, a young eagle must depart its nest... or be ejected from it and discover IT CAN SOAR!”
Gee issued a “caution” to his audience, stating that “instilling courage in your children can have unintended consequences as they mature and start leaping from elevations you yourself wouldn't even attempt!” He finished, “PRACTICE SAFETY! EMBRACE CHALLENGES! SEEK JOY! — @thebucketlistfamily.”
The footage attracted disapproval from numerous followers, some labeling the concept “appalling.” Conversely, others lauded Gee for his approach to raising children. “This. Is. Extraordinary. In countless ways. Cheers, cheers, cheers, cheers, cheers,” James Van Der Beek’s spouse, Kimberly Van Der Beek, remarked then.
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Currently, Gee contemplated that he endeavors to establish an environment of comfort and security, simultaneously motivating his and wife Jessica’s offspring to venture beyond their familiar boundaries.
“A minor part of me experienced sorrow upon reviewing the comments, as it revealed how many individuals lacked the chance to be encouraged by their parents to explore novel experiences and consequently remained within their accustomed limits,” Gee disclosed to the publication.
Despite Gee encountering disapproval for the video, he conveyed that it did not impact him “adversely whatsoever.”
“I possess great assurance in my wife and myself as parents, in our objectives, and in the meticulous, prudent, and affectionate manner in which we raise our children,” he informed the publication. “It held no sway over me. I comprehend the characteristics of online platforms.”
