Unshackled Birds

Can you imagine what it must be like to have your feet always rooted to the ground? Always stuck down there, like they are, is a sad way to exist, if you ask me.

Why are you thinking about it so much then?

I guess because this freedom means so much to me. Being shackled to the ground is my greatest fear in life.

Well, apologies for every time I've made us land early or an extra time: I hope it can be forgiven.

No, it's okay because being on the ground reminds me of how much I love the feeling of flight. I appreciate the whole process more in those moments when I can't enjoy the freedom in real-time; I'm always still there in my mind. I get to enjoy the anticipation up until that moment of takeoff when flight begins from that state of relative stillness and anchorage.

Wow, that's beautiful; very poetic, really. I never realized you thought so deeply about it.

Indeed. When you care about it as much as I do, you tend to ponder on the matter longer than the average bird.

Yes, I suppose so. Well, go on then. Don't let me interrupt: wax philosophical.

It's just such a great metaphor, for life, ya know?

What is? Oh, flying?

Yes, but not just the act of flight itself. The whole ordeal.

Ordeal?

Yeah, taking off, the ready willingness or the nervous hesitation, having the ability to do so or being unable to due to sheer physical limitations and/or the mental inability to let oneself break free from the ground. For, fighting gravity for a time is not something that is simply a matter of the physical realm, you see.

Ok. I guess I see what you mean.

So, you get it too?!

Yeah, I think so. You mean: if you're holding yourself back in life, you might have the ability to fly, spread your wings and soar, as it were, you might even be far more than capable, but you still won't end up anywhere because you'll never push yourself, or allow yourself, to take off from the ground.

Yes! Precisely! And if you never let yourself, you'll be like one of those poor, sad humans down there, doomed to an eternity of wondering, regret, and what-ifs. And that's really no way to live, is it?

No, I'd say it certainly isn't. That's definitely not an option for me at least. I'm trying to live life to the fullest. I want to make the best of every day I'm given, personally.

Now, that's something I can respect and relate to! That's how I strive to always live my life as well. Make this existence worthwhile, if you will. Make myself shine like the pearl or gem that I truly am.

Alright, alright. I think you've taken it a little far, but I get the idea. I catch your drift. Well, actually, I caught it quite a while ago, and I've been riding that baby for miles.

Ha, I see you have come up with a metaphor of your own! Very impressive!

Thanks, I thought I'd try some of that fancy wordplay too. It seemed fun.

Oh yeah, it's a regular hoot.

Well, I know that now. I'm glad I tested it out and have a better idea of what you were raving about this whole time.

Sorry, it has been quite a few miles now, hasn't it!

Yes, but the scenery has been beautiful.

Agreed. What gorgeous pines grow on these mountain ranges!

Yes, and what great conversation and company I've had the pleasure of enjoying along the way. I'm glad I took the leap of faith and decided to make the journey by way of sky with you. There will be no ground shackles for me!

Well thank you, my friend! I can say the same, for it has been quite an enjoyable experience for me as well.

That's great to hear. Now, shall we enjoy the view for a little while.

I think we shall.