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”It was morning, and the new sun sparkled gold across ripples of a gentle sea.��

Isn’t this the most beautiful opening line for a book?

This is an inspiring little story, about a seagull who didn’t simply want to fly to survive, but wanted to fly to feel alive.

”More than anything else, Jonathan Livingston Seagull loved to fly��

Which makes me think about the whole idea of joy and happiness. What makes you happy. What fires your passion. Brings a smile to your face. Gives you a feeling of contentment.

Sure, life comes with responsibility in a myriad of forms. Needs to be met. Bills to be paid. And it’s so easy to lose sight of ourselves. To get worn down by the daily grind. But none of these worries are what makes you “you��.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull never gave up. He had a dream. He was determined. He wanted to fly for the simple joy of doing so. To soar as high as he could. He failed often. He went against the flock. But he kept going. It was hard, but it was worth it.

”We can be free! We can learn to fly.��

Yes, I admit I’m a bit of a sucker for seagulls. I’m lucky enough to live near the beach, and I love watching them. Their line and form. Their ability to soar. Their freedom.

The style of writing and the way the message is put together is a tiny bit dated. A bit hippy trippy. But that’s ok. It was written in 1970 after all, and definitely reflects the mood of the time. But it still retains its inspirational theme. The message still rings true. To be your own person (or seagull!). And to support and encourage others to be the best version of themselves. To believe. To see what others can see.

The photos are a perfect match for the text, and make this a wonderfully calming book to read and ponder over.

TEXT: Richard Bach
PHOTOS: Russell Munson

”The gull sees furthest who flies highest.��

A nice opener for a bit of inspiration this early in the New Year. 3.5�� squawking stars.

*** Follow your bliss ***