A decorated F-16 fighter pilot-awarded the Whitehouse Volunteer Service medal by President George W. Bush and named one of ABC World News' Persons of the Year-shares the self-help and spiritual philosophy that has guided him toward a life filled with faith, purpose, and connection.
As a United States Air Force fighter pilot, Lt Colonel Dan Rooney was among a select group of elite warriors. Yet for many years, this skilled fighter pilot who flew F-16s over the Persian Gulf measured his stature by others' perceptions. Driven by a fear of failure, he sought external affirmation and material success. Like many in the military, he struggled with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. But it was his belief in God and the powerful tenants of a self-created philosophy-born of his Air Force experience-he calls CAVU, which made him eventually see life as a positive and dynamic force to be embraced. An aeronautical term, CAVU-Ceiling And Visibility Unrestricted-means optimal flying conditions: skies are bright and blue, with no physical obstructions or dangers. But in daily life, most days are far from perfect. We struggle with the daily grind that wears us down. We begin to course through life on autopilot, and before we know it, our aspirations, dreams, and resolve are gone. CAVU is a way to reclaim that determination, to see the benefit of weathering the storms of our life and turning them into new, clearly realized visions.
Fly Into the Wind introduces CAVU to everyone. Each chapter centers around a lesson and offers a positive vector toward a new code of living. Rooney helps us discover a renewed belief in ourselves and the art of the possible. Part spiritual guide and part call-to-action, it combines his stories as a pilot with his discovery of faith and purpose. At a time when our divisions are growing, Rooney reminds us that we are connected more than we realize, and that the path to greatness begins with changing ourselves.
