We are encouraged as children to dream big. We are told that we can do whatever we want - whatever we set our minds to.
It breaks my heart to know that some children don't know how to dream. It is what keeps me alive. Dreaming is the only reason I can push on.
Lately, however, I have had to be reminded by my dear friends to pursue my dreams. I think that the point is different for each person when what one hopes for starts to become blurry. Although my interests changed very much over the years, I never stopped dreaming until after college. Financial issues, the job search, and a mix of other paralyzing life circumstances rained down harder - more than I ever thought it could. For the past year, it has seemed as though I have been caught in the middle of this storm. Of course, as with any rain storm, things have let up, but then when I think I am safe and dry enough the rain begins down-pouring yet again, and it hits me from all around. Sometimes, not even reinforcements like rain boots, rain jackets or the trusty rain-shield (the umbrella) have been able to hide and protect me from the onslaught.
In the midst of the storm, it can be hard to remember what daylight and rainbows look like, but they are there. They are just beyond the storm. They are just waiting. After we have battled the unrelenting rain, the crashing thunder, and the fright from the lightening, we appreciate those rays of light so much more.
What good is it to sit in your droopy wet clothes? They only weigh you down and make you feel soggy from head to toe. They keep you from walking confidently again - from running with speed and precision. It may take a friend's hand to help you up, but don't ignore the help. It may take time to re-evaluate your life and to remember where you were headed in life before the storms interrupted your journey, but don't give up. As much as we hate it, the storms are a part of our journey. They will likely muddy our path, even. But maybe after each one we can begin to know better how to navigate our way through them.
Even when the storm gets so dark, know that you are not alone. There are others looking for higher ground too, and there are those already on higher ground who are reaching out to help you up from the storm.
Storms don’t last forever. A good watering may even help things grow to be taller, stronger, and more beautiful. You just have to wait. Be patient. Don’t let the clouds get in the way of your dreams. Hold onto them and never let go. They are yours that the Lord has so graciously given you. The journey to your dreams will likely not be the easiest, but never stop. Your dreams are a precious part of who you are.
