Dream Bigger! Maybe you don’t dream at all? Did the tides of life wash away all your dreams? I haven’t dreamed of much lately; pay off my bills and keep the car running. Most of all I want to keep cat food and litter on hand for my beloved pets. In addition, at the age of seventy-five, I tend to think, “What’s the point now?” Some things just aren’t feasible anymore. However, my mind still thinks I can do everything! That can be problematic!
However, I still get these occasional bright ideas that I’d like to go back to school; become a counselor of some sort. Since surviving a severe case of Covid in February of 2021, I figure God must have a plan for me and I should get busy with that! I doubt He wants me to just sit around! Besides, that would drive me absolutely nuts! Incidentally, I have my online marketing business and a cat-sitting business that I thoroughly love. But, what else might I be able to do? By the way, I prayed a lot about what to do and I now feel led to continue with what I am doing; God will open doors.
Dream Bigger – What Happened to Your Old Dreams?
Did you have tons of dreams as a kid? Like me? I was the kid who the teacher scolded in school for staring out the window and daydreaming! Obviously, life was more exciting on the other side of the window pane. I doubt if I can remember all the things I wanted to be when I grew up! Ballerina, concert pianist, model, fashion designer, medical doctor, composer, zookeeper, astronomer, chemist, swimmer, figure skater, dancer, scuba diver/ marine biologist, have hundreds of wild animals; that was just by the age of seven or so!
Not Everyone Wants You to Dream!
The family shot down every dream! Nearly all of those dreams were sinful as per my ultra-conservative stepmother. My dad said I was nothing but a damn fool and couldn’t do it! He never explained why; I think it was what he’d heard as he grew up so it was his natural approach to life and dreams. We oftentimes don’t know what makes people how they are. When we do understand, we will be more compassionate towards them. But, that all was decades later! Moreover, my understanding came a little late. The bonds that should have been there never had a chance to develop. We remained enemies. Did either of them ever see the wrong they did? Don’t think so! Most of us don’t.
My step-mother finally admitted that she hated me when I was seventeen; also, that not enough bad stuff could ever happen to me to satisfy her! By the way, if you have someone in your life like that, do not let them have that any power over you! I used to think that whenever something bad happened, that she was behind it. Incidentally, she wasn’t; it’s just life! Like the Bible says, “The rain falls on the just and the unjust.” Naturally, there were times I wanted to scream, “Are you satisfied now?” You have to be a very unhappy person to have that kind of spirit! She left a trail of hate behind her; that’s very sad!
Where Do Dreams Go to Die?
I don’t know that dreams ever die, but they do move out of our immediate focus. Consequently, I can look back and see that not all broken dreams are not a bad thing. Oftentimes, we can look back and see that the “worst people” actually taught us the most, even without intending to do so. Moreover, four years ago I was all set to get married. We had an appointment to meet with the Chaplain but my guy decided that day he didn’t want to get married! That morning! After all kinds of promises, he said that I would be in the way. He wanted to travel on his own, etc. Naturally, I was upset and cried gallons of tears. However, it didn’t take long for me to see things more clearly.
As a result, I now thank God at least weekly that He stepped in to put a halt to things. My Father in Heaven knows what is best. Had I married that guy, I might be in jail now for lacing his coffee with something! Not every dream is worth pursuing! Throw those dreams away! I certainly dodged a bullet and that probably happens to most of us. Use your precious time to pursue “good stuff!” Or wait for God to open doors. Even better!
What Size are Your Dreams?
Seriously, dreams come in all shapes and sizes. Some are really tiny but that should be temporary. I recall days in rehab after Covid when I my biggest dream was to get to the bathroom and take care of “things” on my own; rather than have someone else have to do that. Once home again, I’d go out on my balcony and dream of being able to fly! So dreams grow, if allowed. However, you must begin somewhere; even if it’s a pea-sized little green dream! Then nourish it.
Allow yourself an occasional lousy day, just to keep things normal. By the way, an occasional lousy day is to be expected. Moreover, find someone who will “stay on your case.” Just keep putting one foot in front of the other, as they say. Watch that dream grow and then plant another. Keep in mind that what you do could very well inspire someone else. Dare to dream!
What’s the Point of so Much Disappointment?
Our disappointments when dreams get trashed is a natural part of life. We are entitled to grieve those events. Hopefully, we can forgive the people who are involved, including ourselves. Cry your heart out, if necessary. Those tears cleanse our souls; and keep in mind, that God sees them. Something better is usually around the bend; you must remember that. That includes me too. We are all human and we cannot expect others to always put our happiness first. We all do that. This is the perfect time to dream bigger! Keep working but be patient. Sometimes, things have to fall into place that we are not aware of.
We can look around and always see someone else who is hurting even more or whose wound is fresher. We can share our humanity and offer solace to them because we understand at least some of their heartache. It’s a good time to share and possibly encourage them to dream bigger! This is life! Everyone gets hurts and disappointed. The tough get up! Remember, “Time has closed yesterday’s doors!” by Alabama
Dig Out Those Bigger Dreams!
Does any of that sound familiar? Did adults trash all your dreams? Those people who should have been on your side and who should have done something to encourage you? For me, the voices are gone but it’s taken years to erase them completely. I blamed them for crushing my dreams. However, like the story of Joseph in the Bible, when he confronted his brothers, “What you meant for evil, God meant for good.”
All in all, I’ve had a fascinating life and did many of the things I’d hoped to do. I have degrees in Chemistry and Biology, learned to swim and took up scuba diving, studied classical organ and played for forty years and wrote over a dozen organ arrangements. I was blessed to study Classical Organ with Professor August Huybrechts from Belgium. Interestingly enough, he was number eight in a direct line from J. S. Bach! Moreover, he was truly my mentor and friend and I owe all my success to him because he believed in me. I played numbers I’d only dreamed of; the Bach Toccata and Fugue in D minor! Compositions like that brought me so much joy.
I’ve worked with cats for most of my life and now live with my own house-cats who often act like wild animals! Although I was unable to dream much of the time, God orchestrated things for me. Pretty much covered all the bases, eh? Now I understand that He is the One I should discuss my bright ideas (dreams) with; before I put things into action. Besides, He knows my heart and what will make me happy, more than I do!
How Do We Dream Bigger?
We have to be daring to dream, especially if you have a past like mine. For years I felt I was living by default. Consequently, I still saw no point in dreaming at all. God did not promise long lives so we have to make the most of each day. However, it takes a lot to get me in gear until it actually happens. Then I can get moving. Therefore, I’m working on a “Bucket List.” Places/People to see, Things to Buy, Things to Learn, and Little Things I just Want to do!
I moved to San Antonio in 1985 and have never been back to Michigan. Sadly, many of my friends have passed on. I wish I could have gone back sooner, so it’s important that I do that while I’m still able. In addition, there’s so much of Texas I want to see. Now, any possible adventure has to fit into my cat-sitting schedule! Somewhat complicated these days. Alas, travel takes money so it’s just one of those things I may not get to do. Here’s where I need to dream bigger! Think about it more and make some plans, for starters. And pray! I definitely want God’s approval of my dreams. Make your intentions!
I’d love to buy a not-too-little Tiny House on a river! Another thing that may or may not be feasible! But I definitely believe in miracles. Therefore, I must be ready, just in case! However, I’m not packing yet! And there are classes I’d love to take; a Master’s degree is questionable. However, no one can take away the things we learn! Incidentally, if anyone really impresses me, it’s the older folks who don’t let anything stop them! Most of us have more time available too.
Dream Bigger – What’s in the Future?
So, here is part of that “Bucket List.” It’s a work in progress as I learn to Dream Bigger! First is to visit my beloved Michigan; see where I grew up and then where I lived in northern Michigan. (See Cheboygan to the right) I want to explore the Upper Peninsula and see my beloved waterfalls one more time. Get re-acquainted with my brother and meet his family. Remember, I haven’t seen these people since 1985! It would be an awesome trip. However, I understand what is meant by the old adage, “You can’t go home again!” Therefore, there’s an element of fear; things will be so different! Will I be disappointed? Hey, life is not without risks.
So What Else Might I Do?
Second would be to take Amtrak from here to Chicago, then west, and down the Pacific coast and back home. In addition, I’ve always dreamed of taking that train across Canada too. Not to mention, exploring Canada. So much gorgeous scenery east of Lake Huron!
Today I was reminiscing about rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon back in 1974. I’d been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1971 and had been on megadoses of steroids to control the symptoms. Because of the flu, the Neurologist stopped the prednisone cold turkey. I’d gone through a horrible bout of withdrawal and my regular doctor didn’t want me to make the trip. I had orders to stay warm and DRY! We had snow on the rim the first night. Ever since, I have wanted to repeat the adventure! Do it up right and get totally soaked! However, I probably can’t hike out this time! So that would be one of my biggest dreams right now. By the way, my Neurologist here, decided I did not have MS – 14 years after the initial diagnosis! That’s a dream fulfilled, eh?
Those Not so Much Bigger Dreams
We certainly don’t want to loose our smaller dreams in the process! Some of these are pretty funny! I want to make enough money to support more agencies that help animals. There’s even a building here in San Antonio that I’d love to purchase and turn into a Cat Center and Hospice. Zoning will be an obstacle there. However, as I said before, “I believe in miracles!”
Incidentally, my cats want an elaborate new cat tree! I’d like to get out of debt, take up scuba diving again, and get some of my stories and music published. I gave up too soon! I should put some dental implants on the list too. In addition, I want to replace my old hip; it was replaced in 1997! It doesn’t sound much like fun; but, they will put an extension in so both legs are the same length. (They had to cut off more bone than usual because the bone was so damaged from all the steroids for MS.) Dreams don’t always have to be pleasant; they can still bring wonderful results. By the way, if you’re interested in SCUBA in the Great Lakes, here’s your LINK: SHIPWRECKS
It’s OK if Some Dreams Are Mundane!
I want to continue decluttering our apartment and have things in order so I can relax. I think I will be adding to my list as time goes on. Of greater importance is the fact that I actually have some dreams. We must dream; it should be a way of life. It puts a more positive slant on things. Keep believing that good things can still happen! Pray for the right doors to open for you! Hey, I haven’t given upon having some tall, gray and handsome man show up at my door; stranger things have happened. However, I’m not sure what I’d do with him; but, he could help clean litter boxes. And change those pesky light bulbs on the ceiling! But, I need to warn him that I am about as domesticated as a feral cat!
My Biggest Dream!
I could handle life on my own private island-I think! Probably not for a really long time though? I would definitely need electricity and the internet! That huge sandy beach would be the biggest litter box anywhere! However, the ultimate dream is Heaven! Everything else pales to that! Some day in the future! “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep.” From “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost.
One Final Thought About Dreams
If we are to reach any of our goals or dreams, there is an underlying attitude that will have a tremendous effect of everything we do. We must be thankful for what we already have or have accomplished. Moreover, we need to know Who has given us those things and allowed us to do the things we love. I am so grateful for the people God has brought into my life and I expect that to continue. However, that will include things we no longer have and things we can no longer do.
Incidentally, bitterness over our losses will work against us; let it go! There are things we cannot change. When one door closes; another one opens. Or at least, a window! In addition, those things can fuel our new goals and dreams. If we were successful once, we can be successful again! Moreover, how will we know when we have “arrived?” According to Dr. Tony Evans, pastor and writer, “Success is when you realize and complete your Divine purpose in life.”
Don’t Be Afraid to Modify Your Dreams!
Don’t be too hard on yourself if you have to modify your dreams. That just might be one of the reasons people retire; they realize they can’t keep up the same pace they’ve used for many years! Hard work does take a toll in many cases. Don’t neglect your family or your health; those are blessings you cannot afford to lose. You can still have huge dreams but they can take less physical energy.
Incidentally, maybe it’s time to write your memoirs! I’m serious! That could be so special for your family. Link some of your dreams with those of your grandchildren and teach them to dream bigger by doing so. However, don’t be like me! I heard one of my favorite radio pastors, Alistair Begg, say this several days ago: sadly, it often describes me, “spasms of enthusiasm swallowed up by chronic inertia!” Hey, I’m working on that! Don’t let that be you! And if you are having one of those unmotivated days, remember that, “Triumph is just ‘umph’ added to try!”
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