Here is an idea from a poem (author: Marianne Williamson: 'Our Deepest Fear'). 'Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.'
This prompted me to think the complexities involved in being the whole of ourselves. We naturally monitor ourselves when little as we begin to understand our family of origin; we shape ourselves for survival of this. That is- to be accepted, loved, and develop a sense of belonging. This leads to adaptations of thought, behaviour, expectation. So it is a huge task to develop separate passions and to believe we can soar in those. The line reminds me of how so many of us are holding ourselves back through continued preoccupations about what may be expected, or what may go wrong if we exercised our right to pursue a dream.
I met a good number of people through the recent recession who had difficulties at work, which became their chance to cut loose from obligation and develop a talent. The internet has offered the gift of being able to develop areas of interest, and to reach the world with our skills. The communities we live in offer a wealth of opportunity to connect and create, and taking part in those adds further heat to the embers of our interests.
I played by imagining I lived a life rich with fulfillment and nourishment. I sensed the feeling that engendered. I worked backwards, considering what elements may bring me more of that, building on the richness I have already. It was important to not think I had to re-create everything as that would make things unimaginable. This trail of thought left me hopeful and curious for my next steps.
At our own level, in our own way, we owe it to ourselves to stay spacious in our experience. Hope is a way of remembering our potential. How are you doing with your dreams?