It is fascinating that the expression "to swim against the stream" is a metaphor for making choices in life that go against prevailing opinions. This is considered to be a challenge that is hard to attain. How interesting that we perceive natural phenomena to be difficult.  

When we think of salmon swimming upstream back to their place of birth or the thousands of miles birds travel to migrate, we see them as enormous undertakings. However, I wonder if it is even possible for healthy salmon to choose not to return to the river that is their spawning grounds?  Could a healthy migratory bird think "hmmm, maybe I'll just stay put this winter here in Canada, rather than flying all the way to Mexico"?

It is natural for the salmon to swim upstream. Yes, it takes a lot of energy, but this energy is expended in a manner that maximizes life fulfillment.

As humans our challenge is to get back in touch with the activities that come naturally to us. When we are out of touch with our natural strengths and desires, we settle for a life filled with activities that drain us. Many of us have forgotten our innate strengths, the activities we can engage in for hours without feeling exhausted. Activities that energize us and that we are naturally good at even though they might be perceived as challenging by others.

Click here to read full article and learn how to reconnect with the salmon within you.


* The Coho Salmon was photographed by David Blevins