Each night I look up at the stars outside my window. Sometimes I see moving stars, airplanes flying overhead, the miracle of flight as they rise above the earth.
These days, many of us are feeling dragged down in spirit. The endless storms of information, ads, disinformation, and distressing news can trigger our fear, anxiety, worries, and what Shakespeare called "the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to." But we can take heart from the miracle of flight.
My father, Colonel Frank Dreher, a pioneer in aviation, has always inspired me. Following his example, I took flying lessons. I was amazed to find that when I drove a Cessna 150 down the runway at 55 miles per hour, it would take off, developing lift from the wind beneath my wings.
Like in the poem, "High Flight," by John Gillespie Magee, I'd "slip the surly bonds of earth" to fly high into the bright blue sky.
Now it's your turn to fly. Looking at your own life, what is it that lifts you above the downward drag of worry and anxiety?
What is it that gives you wings?
Think back to a time when you felt your spirit rise above "the surly bonds of earth." When did you feel your heart filled with joy, wonder, and a sense of grace? Recall that time now in your imagination.
- Where were you?
- What were you doing?
- What brought you this lift?
- Was it connecting with nature? Music? A loved one? A moment of unexpected beauty and grace?
Take a deep breath and connect with that feeling now. Know that you have the power to rise above the stresses of mundane reality to feel greater joy, hope, and renewal.
When you are ready, smile and look around you, discovering new opportunities to find your wings and fly.
I wish you joy in the process.