Reflecting on...Dreaming Big
I don't need permission to dream
'Cause when I close my eyes breathe deeply,
My body holds election with itself
And deems the dream victorious.
Asleep I'm unstoppable, un-impossible.
How amazing is the notion
That I'm so capable
I dream with my eyes open!
A substance of wonder
First existing only in the mind of me,
Who dreamed it to reality.
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Dreams v3
This piece is an oldie but a goodie, which I wrote a few years back in response to my musical partner in crime's song Dreams. I thought of it today after I viewed a short motivational video that's trending by Steve Harvey.
Reflecting on this piece, I'm moved outside of myself and my own dreams. I'm inspired and incited and excited for others who I know are moving forward courageously in pursuit of their own dreams. I think of the youth I work with at EEE who have dreams of going to college and becoming entrepreneurs. I think of my little sister, Miya, who dreams of becoming a professional model. I think of my sister friends who dream of growing their businesses.
It's cliche to say, "follow your dreams." Instead, I say: Identify your dream. Nurture your dream. Live your dream daily with the internal fervor that it is already a reality. Above all, do not look to another person to validate or consent to your dream. Because, your dream is uniquely your own!
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Kashanna Eiland is the co-founder and Executive Director of Empowerment through Education and Exposure, a nonprofit agency that promotes post-secondary education and career opportunities for Chicago youth. She is also a Social Impact Strategist and Speaker who aims to help socially conscious individuals and organizations bring their bright ideas to fruition.
Blog: kae.land
