Prologue

What does “Learning to Fly” mean? To me, it has something to do with going beyond the limitations that are placed upon us - either by ourselves, or others, or just the status quo of the times we find ourselves in. Yet one of the first steps in learning to fly involves becoming more grounded.

You need a stable platform before launching yourself into the skies.

Flying is also one of those activities that is somewhat safer when not performed alone. Like sailing. Or spelunking. In case you falter and begin to fall, it’s wise to have a trusted companion who is also close enough to catch you and provide a little mid-air support. Just until your wings find their rhythm once again.

Lastly, before setting out, it’s good to know where you are headed. As with sailing (or spelunking. Or any potentially dangerous activity other than, perhaps, strolling), direction is important when flying.

If you really know where you stand (upon a firm launchpad), and if you know in which direction to head (after surveying the landscape and checking the weather), and if your flock is right there with you (having reached a consensus on the destination), then flying might not be as challenging as one might think.