Dreams, they say, appear in black-and-white. Not mine. My dream has played out before my eyes in vivid colors.
Many years ago, as the father of young children, I took on the traditional role that included a job I hated. Something told me to challenge the assumptions of life. With the support of my wife, I quit my job as an editor of a publication operated by a large, stable chain of magazines and started my lil’ company in the basement of our very modest home. My company has been a resounding success, but you will not see that reflected on my tax forms; its greatest successes have been in the area of “other things.”
The direction of eyes-closed dreams cannot be steered. And so it is with dreams played out in one’s life. While I imagined operating a company that brought me financial stability, instead it has provided “other things” as reward, things I have found more valuable than a new car in the garage. It’s like a closed-eye dream that you think is going in one exciting direction, then takes an even more enjoyable twist you never saw coming.
First and foremost among the “other things” following my dream meant was being an engaged father to three children, joyful husband and helpful neighbor. Yes, working out of the home and arranging my own schedule meant I enjoyed the greatest luxury of all: time.
Following the dream of being a self-employed freelance writer led to realizing another dream, teaching. My role as adjunct faculty at the state university near my home has been a hugely rewarding experience. How many others get paid to be life-long learners? (And, yes, I learn as much from these bright young people as they learn from me!)
It has been almost 20 years since I started my dream…er….business. The children are now 22, 21 and 16 and need me less. And now I wonder, is it time to tackle a new dream?
When the dreams you remember are in color, you are a lucky person.
By John Dages
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