The Term, The Right Stuff was inspired by those risk-taking test pilots and precision aerobatic teams— calculating, but never reckless.
It’s about courage in action, grounded in discipline, preparation, trust, and purpose.
It’s the unshakable focus, sharp awareness, and deep reliance of a team. It’s confidence earned through effort, persistence, void of competition and ego.
As someone who has been a fan of aviation as well as the resilience & strength of pilots in uniform, this article is a tribute to one of the most inspiring aviators of all time: The U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
Nostalgic Memories at the Hamilton Air Show! A TRUE STORY.
Years ago, I had the privilege of managing the VIP section at the Hamilton Air Show in Ontario, Canada. It was an unforgettable time—rubbing shoulders with celebrities and professional flight teams from all over the world who brought the skies to life.
For many years that Air Show dominated the Fathers Day events in June, with massive audiences showing up throughout Southern Ontario to watch these incredible aerobatics in sheer awe and amazement.
I was blown away watching the Blue Angels fly F-18 Hornets travelling with speeds up to 700 mph, wings just 18 inches apart from the other team members, soaring through the air in perfect formation and grace.
It looked effortless—but behind that grace was grueling preparation, total trust, and an elite level of stamina and pinpoint precision. The G-forces they endured were beyond anything most of us could comprehend.
Their performance wasn’t just about flying. It was about trusting each other with their lives, executing exact maneuvers with zero margin for error. That level of discipline left a mark on me—and still does to this very day.
This story hits home for me in a very personal way.
On July 13th, 1983, at an air show in Niagara Falls, New York, Lieutenant Commander Mike Gershon—a young father and husband—lost his life in a tragic aerobatic accident that day. One split-second mistake, and everything changed. Thousands of us watched in shock and heartbreak as the explosion unfolded in the air high above us.
For decades a dear friend of mine and I have spent years enjoying these shows in Canada and the U.S. Sadly we were in attendance at that show and witnessed the horror right in front of us. The memory still brings tears to my eyes….42 years later.
Mike and the Blue Angels were regulars at our air show. I can remember how much fun we all had enjoying each others time, drinking a few beers in the hangar, loving life.
Mike was widely respected, deeply admired, and left behind a legacy that still lives on. He had The Right Stuff—and paid the ultimate price doing what he loved.
Pushing the Envelope – To Exceed your Expectations.
The thrill of pushing your limits isn’t about adrenaline alone—it’s about being fully present. It’s about discovering that your body and mind are more capable than you ever imagined.
A dear friend of mine, who I’ve shared a a friendship with for several decades, once made the bold decision to learn to fly. And once he achieved that he went one step further and bought a twin-engine Piper Warrior stepping out of his comfort zone once again, always pushing the envelope. That decision rewarded him with years of freedom, fulfillment, and joy.
So many fun times and warm memories enjoying each others company, the great aerobatic flight teams at the air shows and all the amazing people we met there throughout Canada and the U.S.
Bob—this article is for you my dear friend. Looking forward to watching the air shows again by your side once you’re back on your feet which I’m confident will be really soon. You’ve always been an influential role model to me.
When you reach the final chapter of your life, what do you want to see?
A montage of days fully lived? Triumphs—big or small—that remind you of your courage & determination?
Or will there be regrets… memories tinged with “What if?”
When you risk, you live boldly. When you hesitate too long and don’t take action, you risk not committing to your goals, people walking away, or you suffer with further fears and doubts, all attributing to stagnation—the kind that echoes with “I wish I had…” Sadly it would have become too late. Life is precious and too short to not take action.
Picture this: One person, flying in formation, heart pounding but spirit soaring, LOVING LIFE. Another persons scenario several years later, could be a picture of someone destitute, immobile, with low energy strapped in a wheel chair, mind clouded with missed chances and what-ifs.
A quote I absolutely love and live by: “Some people tip toe through life hoping they can make it safely to death”
OMG, well that’s not me, I’ll continue to work, stretch, win and grow, loving what I do until I drop from this life, ‘FULL ON’ grateful that I have provided the best service possible, being in balance with work and family, and paying it forward towards others 🙂 In my little life, that’s what I consider The RIGHT STUFF!
Which one tells the story you want to live?
The Right Stuff isn’t reserved for pilots. You don’t need wings—you just need to make a choice:
Whether your “flight” is starting a creative project, healing a relationship, finding your purpose, or redefining your path—you can embrace your own Right Stuff, and the good news is, you can start today.
And when you do, life won’t always reward you with medals or trophies—but with something far better: Meaning. Connection. Satisfaction. And a story worth telling, far more magnificent then you could have ever imagined possible.
To all those that risk their lives in a line of duty. In honor and deep respect to the men and women in the military who have suffered great losses serving their country. Much love and respect to you all. Blessings.
Warmest Regards,
Lori Gradley
Don’t wait—your path to clarity and confidence starts today.
Author: Lori Gradley
Entrepreneur | Internationally Published Writer & Author |
Mindset & Wellness Coach | Mother
This FREE Prosperity Guide will unveil the secrets to living an enriched, abundant life that many successful people have prospered from.
This guide will effectively move you closer to your dreams and goals by discovering the 10 proven steps that will unlock the keys to your success. To do, be, and have everything you desire.