Lately I’ve been really watching the birds fly, a lot. This morning I happened to catch a glimpse of one gliding just a few feet in front of me, and I marveled at the way it just seemed effortless and carefree. Many people equate flying or soaring with “success”, but I think it’s more than just that; I equate it also with overcoming challenges, trust, faith, and peace.

Think about it, when the bird flaps its wings, the air is pushed down. This opposition in force lifts the bird in the air. It’s not easy to oppose something. Baby birds have to trust that the flapping will take them in the air. They fall, they must get back into the air, they fall again- they must have faith in themselves that they can fly. They must believe.

Once the bird hits the air, watching it fly is peaceful. I close my eyes after I see the bird this morning. I imagine the smooth feeling of flight, and I begin to picture all the people that make difficult work seem effortless-  A-Rod hitting a home run, Fred Astaire and Ginger on the dance floor, Kerry Underwood belting out high notes. Effortless.

And this makes me think about life. Can life really be effortless?

I held my breath deep for a moment and did a slow exhale. Yes. Effortless does not mean without work or challenges, effortless to me means living with more joy and lightness, releasing the weight on your shoulders, working hard but with a purpose, living with passion. Oh yes, life can be effortless. Actually, my life feels effortless when:

* I breathe deeply.

* I am in the moment, connected to the present.

* I trust fully that everything happens for a reason.

* I witness the pure joy from my kids over the little things- bubbles in the backyard, the sound of a motorcycle or truck, seeing the neighbor when she’s out walking her dogs.

* I choose faith over fear.

* I am grateful, more than “back of the mind” grateful, truly in gratitude and appreciation.

* I communicate my thoughts clearly and listen to others communicate theirs.

* I include fun and play in my daily life.

* I clear my ‘mental plate’ and simplify, simplify, simplify.

* I turn the radio loud and sing along with my favorite songs.

* I follow the flow of where the energy is good.

* I step outside of myself and give to others.

When does life feel effortless to you?