musings of a city girl

a look into the mind and heart of Janet as she struggles to shine amidst the clamor and concrete in an impersonal city.

Thursday, October 20, 2005

Dreams

Dreams; not the REM ones, but the ones that motivate us to act in certain ways, to choose certain paths- they are a strange thing. As children, we dream of the great accomplishments that we will make when we are adults: when we are so much wiser, richer, and able to do these tasks. But as we age, dreams change. They are not always motivated by fantastic ideas, grandieur in nature, created with a limitless imagination (as they are when we are children), but become more realistic, more "practical." But are they? Sometimes, yes. Adults sometimes dream of having a nice family with a nice, stable home and a good job. Some dream of writing prize winning novels or radio-worthy music, and dedicate their lives to these tasks. But others dream of wealth, fame, power, and influence. Greed and pride is the driving force behind these aspirations. And people become blind to the consequences of pursuing their dreams. Others are hurt, nations are driven apart, all for one person's gain. But what do they gain? In the end it is meaningless. Empty people are walking in hopes to fill their lives through self-gratification. Empty people are reaching into their empty souls, their resources dry, and this will go on for the rest of their life, for they will never be satisfied. But somewhere along the way, Someone presents himself to each and every one of us. He who holds within himself life, riches, and fulfillment in abundance. Those who realize their depravity and the hopelessness of their situation take freely what the Stranger has to offer. But pride and ignorance smothers the rest, and they choke, for their lifeless dreams bind them to a sealed room with no air. The window is there to be opened, but they stubbornly choose to die. Having God as your motivation and inspiration is the only way to fulfillment. Let him guide your dreams.

5 Comments:

  • At 12:22 AM, Blogger Keller said…

    Just posing a question to you: Do you think that perhaps even the most noble dreams/aspirations can be laced with greed? i.e. writing prize novels or radio-worthy music? I'm wondering if we can trick ourselves into thinking some of our dreams are more noble than others... granted, wealth, fame, power are driven by greed and pride, BUT is not wanting to be a great artist (music or literature) a form of success or fame, and also a lucrative venture? Sometimes even our inspirational dreams can reveal things about our spirit that we'd rather not know. What do you think?

     
  • At 12:37 AM, Blogger Superjan said…

    I agree that noble dreams can be laced with greed. Take myself, for example. I love music, have always loved music, and have (occasionally) dreamed of being a rockstar. So why would I want to be a rockstar? So I can touch and challenge people with my lyrics? Perhaps. So I can use the gifts that God has given me? For sure. So people will know who I am and admire me? yeah...seems a little self-seeking, that. I've been told I should forget about school and just focus on music, because I could probably be successful at it. But, I realize that being successful in that way is not what need for fulfillment. So, I choose to use my gift in ways such as leading worship at church, etc. Not that I'm saying professional recording artists are selfishly motivated, just that I know that could be a problem for me...It all depends on where your heart is. It is very easy for any of our actions, though intended for good, to be twisted into becoming all about us. Such is our nature. But that is why we as Christians must be careful that our hearts are in the right place when we invest our time and energy in fulfilling dreams.

     
  • At 8:55 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said…

    just to let you know that I check your blogs so I know how late you stay up and if I can call you in the morning or not! Maybe we'll talk today, but right now I am dreaming of coffee with my neighbor! Here's something I've been wondering about. Do you make up the strange word verification?

     
  • At 11:53 AM, Blogger Superjan said…

    no I don't make up the strange word verification: its an automated feature by the internet site, so that I can't receive "junk mail comments" on my blogs.

     
  • At 1:34 PM, Blogger Keller said…

    I had an interesting talk this morning with Shawn about this whole topic. The phrase that popped out (from Henry Cloud's teaching) was "Dig it Up". What are your dreams and desires? Dig them up, how do they match your spiritual gifts/abilities/skills etc. Is the motivation to serve others or yourself? That question is key I think... if it is about serving yourself, then you'll never find fulfillment in realizing these dreams. Also included was "Holy Discontent"... what is one thing you are upset about in society, etc. It could be that God has placed that in your life as something to place your passions into as well. Interesting, eh? It caused me to think about where I'm at.. anyhow this is a blog within a blog so I'll stop now!

     

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