It is the possibility...

It is the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.

--- Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist ---

Another favorite quote from my favorite book... it says so much and lets those of us who believe in dreams dream.  I LOVE hanging out and playing with my twin nieces, whom I cannot believe are already 5 years old.  I think seeing the world through their eyes, where anything is possible and they are free to let their wildest imaginations run free is such an important and powerful blessing.  For the holidays I bought them a snowman kit where we could all decorate foam snowmen, and they didn't let the pre-cut scarves, hats, carrots, and coal determine what their snowmen would look like.  I properly put the scarf at the neck, used the carrot as a nose, etc... and quickly realized how much more fun they were having... getting outside of the box.  So today, remember, dream big and anything is possible.

Put yourself in a state of mind...

Put yourself in a state of mind where you say to yourself, 'Here is an opportunity for me to celebrate like never before, my own power, my own ability to get myself to do whatever is necessary.'

--- Martin Luther King, Jr. ---

Happy Birthday MLK!  It is incredible that over 80 years ago we were blessed with a leader, orator, and activist in Martin Luther King, Jr. who was wise beyond his years and has provided us with so many quotes, speeches, and thoughts that are still so relevant today.  Of the many to choose from, I selected this quote because it speaks to his understanding of the importance of thinking, reflection, and celebrating our own power, which I truly believe could change society for the better.  This is so important in life and informs not only how we treat others but also how we treat ourselves.  There is so much to learn in a lifetime and, although his was cut short, the lessons that Martin Luther King, Jr. had mastered are nothing short of phenomenal.  So many people gain strength and inspiration from his story, what he believed, and what he stood for.  His legacy lives on through his words and lessons that are continually shared.  In honor of his legacy, put yourself in this state of mind to see the opportunities and possibilities for the best in your own life and remember that we each have the power to do whatever is necessary to realize our own dreams. 

When I dare to be powerful...

"When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid."

--- Audre Lorde ---

This is another favorite quote which happens to be in a large framed photograph right above my computer at work.   When I first started at the job, I didn't know what impact this quote would have on my work and my personal capacity for action, but I often find myself glancing up at this big poster, seeing her face with her arms in the air, and thinking about how I can dissipate my own fears in life.  I have also heard this particular quote mentioned time and time again at a workshop that our department hosts each year on the 'imposter syndrome.'  This quote is a reminder not to let your fears stand in the way of what you want to do, and emphasizes how important it is to identify and develop a strong vision for our own lives.  Audre Lorde was a powerful poet/activist whose words demonstrate a wisdom beyond what is written on paper.  Enjoy!