The Courage to Dream (2 of 5)

It seems to me that the world is stuck. We have political parties with seemingly irreconcilable differences, polarizing opinions on guns, abortion, the environment, with no signs of compromise and no apparent hope of resolution. The rancor from all sides has devolved to a single position: “Just say no.” No matter what price there is to pay. This post is the second in a series in which I explore the courage it takes to lead. 

The courage to dream and put forth your dream is essential if you are to claim the power to create your life and bring out the best in yourself and others. It allows you to orient yourself at any time and in any place, based on a consistent vision that forms the inner core of your amazing strength. This act allows you to pursue what you most desire, pulling you toward a more powerful sense of self and self-worth.

This act of courage requires simply that you claim all you aspire to be. What is your dream, your deepest desire? What do you hold most dear? What would you bring to life if you could? What is the “song of glory” you wish to sing?

What does it mean to “sing a song of glory?” I have an idea: Remember, if you can, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Dr. King developed and refined his dream over many years and gave voice to his “song of glory,” his dream of a nation undivided by prejudice and hatred. Many listened to his song and took courageous steps toward greater racial equality and harmony as a result. But the song is not finished and did not die with him. The song lives on, touching and inspiring others with its power and affirmation, and people continue to sing that song of freedom and equality. His courage to dream and put forth that dream has been a great gift for us all.

The courage to dream and put forth that dream requires that you formulate a vision for your life. You must craft your dream, refining it through each major challenge you face. Then, you must communicate your vision – whether in a relationship, at team, at work, or in community – and engage others in its creation. As you live your dream, clarifying and articulating it as you go, you give voice to your own unique “song of glory.”