Jonathan Changed Me

Dear Universe,

I have a newfound appreciation of seagulls.

I read a story the other day – Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach – that’s really wedged itself right into my soul.

And it wasn’t because the story itself was especially fantastic or profound or anything. Don’t get me wrong – it was very good and I enjoyed it. But it’s how my perception of those stupid squawking birds has changed since reading it that’s been the real kicker.

The story was basically about a seagull (Jonathan) who didn’t fit in with the rest of the flock. While they were content just eating fish and doing normal seagull stuff all day, Jonathan was fascinated by flight. He’s eventually banned from the flock for focusing on flying and not being seagully enough but comes back later to teach and inspire the other gulls how to become excellent flyers (plus there’s this whole spiritual thing going on, but not the point of this letter).

Now obviously I love themes about following your own inner compass and all of that, but what I’m realizing I’m taking away most after reading the story is how much I notice seagulls now.

Usually my noticing of seagulls was limited to the “shut the fuck ups” when they’re screeching outside my window at 5am or the “get the fuck away from mes” while I’m trying to eat a snack at the beach.

But now, Universe?

I can’t help but hear or see the gulls and think “I wonder if that one is a Jonathan.”

Instead of annoyance, I find myself fascinated by frickin seagulls. I actually listen to their calls back and forth to one another as they swoop around outside my window. I stop to watch them floating peacefully on top of the ocean’s surface. I admire the grace in their flight.

What magic it is to actually notice those little things. What joy to see and appreciate another living thing in that way.

I think that’s the power of story, Universe. Stories shape us. They change us. They open our senses.

And when I imagine all of the stories out there I haven’t yet read or haven’t yet heard, and all of the things I haven’t yet noticed… mind blown. If seagulls can make my day better after one story, how many other things are waiting out there for me to notice?

There is so much magic to be found and I intend to open my eyes, my ears, my soul and find it. That’s my mission.

But for now, Universe, I’m going to lay here in this bed a little longer, stare out my window, and watch the Jonathans fly by.

XO – Bailee

June 25, 2026