Meant to Fly

Photo by Rohan Gupta on Unsplash

“I'm gonna run. No, I'm gonna fly. I'm gonna know what it means to live and not just be alive.”
(Say I Won’t, Mercy Me)

The birds are out in full force this beautiful summer. I get a large variety of them in my backyard, and they are quite interesting to observe, I must say. On more than one occasion, though I have noticed something quite peculiar when it comes to our feathered friends. Several times when I have been out driving, I have seen many different types of birds walking leisurely across the road. As they act like they own the road and are in no hurry, their cavalier behaviour repeatedly causes me great stress. As I get closer and closer, my panicked internal dialogue starts. Am I going to hit them? Will they actually use the wings they have so obviously been blessed with? Thankfully, in every case so far right at the very last minute, they choose to flap their wings and get the heck out of there! I don’t get it though. I am always left thinking… Why would they walk when they can fly? Why would they put themselves in harm’s way when they can easily soar above the danger? I have not quite figured that one out yet but have often thought how much people, myself included can at times be very similar to these silly birds.

Why do we drag our feet through life when we were destined to soar? Life is meant to be lived well. It was never meant to be something we just tolerate or do well when we are ready. Years ago I recall asking my grandfather how some of his friends were doing and he stated, “Not well. They just exist.” It broke my heart because I thought to myself, “Who wants to just exist?” Not me! Why would or should we ever settle for that?

I love the show America’s Got Talent. Recently there was an audition I will never forget. Her name was Jane Maeczewski and when performing she goes by the stage name Nightbirde.  As she shared her story, she disclosed that she is battling cancer and currently has a 2% chance of survival. Her attitude was incredible as she stated, “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.” She sang an original song entitled It’s OK. In reality she is clearly not OK, yet she sang like an angel. Her emotional performance gave me goosebumps and earned her the golden buzzer from Simon Cowell. What an example of someone who is choosing to fly despite terrible hardship. Even her stage name, Nightbirde exemplifies her character of a bird who still sings even in the darkest time. We can learn so much from her and her approach to life. Recently her health struggles have resulted in her having to step away from the AGT competition and still she shares to her devoted fans “I am planning my future, not my legacy.” How inspiring she is and a great example of someone who has chosen to get the most out of life whatever it may offer her. 

We have all been blessed with unique abilities and talents. Sharing them with the world is our gift and our responsibility. Being all we can be in life, cultivating our gifts and celebrating that should be our goal. I have met people time and time again who are settling in life, going through the motions each day whether it be in their relationships, careers, goals, or other life circumstances. It is heartbreaking when they deserve better but as they have been knocked down, they see their wings as broken. They accept life “as-is” believing they are truly not worthy of more.

​We only get one chance at this life, and we need to give it our best. You are uniquely you. There is no one else exactly like you. Isn’t that an incredible thought? The world needs you, and all you can offer.  Realizing that and believing you have much to offer is key.

Pinpointing your passions is a great place to start. It gets you excited and out of a rut you may find yourself in from time to time. Finding out what your talents and giftings are is essential so you can be all that you can be. Maybe you are artistic, athletic, great at computers and technology, an amazing cook, fantastic with kids, a powerful speaker or incredible with decorating and home décor. There are so many areas to consider. Do some soul searching and find out what your passion is and go after it. Maybe it will take going back to school, a sacrifice of some sort or taking a step back to move forward, but I encourage you to believe in yourself and go for it.

Several years ago, I quit a great job that I loved to go to teacher’s college. It was scary to take a risk, and have our family live off one salary with no job guarantee on the other side. Despite that risk I felt excitement and peace all at the same time. I was stepping into my calling. I felt that and I never looked back. I was made to fly, not walk and I was spreading my wings.

Change can be very scary. We all have doubts and fears. That is so normal. Is there an area of your life where you feel you are meant for more? That is a question only you can answer. I just want you to feel that you are worthy of truly living your best life in all aspects. Your wings are ready and waiting for you to use them.

The Bible says in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full!” This is my desire for you. Don’t be like the bird who was designed for so much more but chose to walk through life oblivious of the wings at his side. What a tragedy! Keep moving forward. Don’t let this world or discouragement take the wind out of your sails. Every day is a fresh start and a new chance. Spread those wings and fly my friend and I’ll be the proud one on the ground cheering you on.

Until next time,
~ Dana

Isaiah 40:31: Those whose hope is in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.

​Little Lesson Learned: Flying through life gives you such a better view. Won’t you give it a try?
 
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