Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Growing Up Or Growing Old - Step Boldly Into Your Dreams

I recently read a story about an 87 year old woman who knew the power of pursuing her dreams. The story goes that, Rose, at the age of 87 had always wanted to get a college degree but I imagine Rose used some of the same excuses for putting off going to college that some of you use to delay doing the things you know in your heart you must do. When Rose enrolled in college, she did not let her age, fear, anxiety, limiting beliefs or anything else deter her from her dream.

Unlike many of you, Rose knew that if she did not take steps to change her life now, she may never have the chance. She did not dwell on impossibilities - she looked at what was possible for her NOW.

Rose was a comical, enthusiastic wise woman who readily shared her wisdom and experiences with her much younger classmates. She was confident, sure of what she wanted and went after it. She became a campus icon and easily made friends wherever she went.

She was invited to speak at the annual football banquet and this is part of what she had to say:

"We do not stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing. If I am 87 years old, and stay in bed for a year, and never do anything, I will turn 88. Anybody can grow older. That doesn't take any talent or ability," she added.

"The idea is to grow up by always finding the opportunity in change. Have no regrets. The elderly usually don't have regrets for what we did, but rather for things we did not do. The only people who fear death are those with regrets. You have to laugh and find humor everyday. You've got to have a dream. When you lose your dreams, you die. We have so many people walking around who are dead, and they don't even know it!" she said.

Rose concluded her speech by courageously singing "The Rose." She challenged the audience to study the lyrics and live them out in their daily lives.

Rose did complete the college degree she had dreamed of all those years ago. After graduation, Rose lived one more week before dying peacefully in her sleep. Over two thousand college students attended her funeral in tribute to the wonderful woman who taught by example that it's never too late to live your dream!

Most of you might be thinking "it's too late for me", "I'm too old", "I'm not smart enough", "too many other obligations" and the list of excuses goes on and on.

When you begin to dwell in the land of "can't", remember Rose, a woman who at 87 achieved her dream. And, if it wasn't too late or too difficult for Rose, it won't be for you either. To get on track to pursue your dreams, I invite you to leave me a message at tiny.cc/Contact98 to see which of my programs will be a good fit for you. You will receive a response within 24-48 hours.

Article by - Gladys M. Anderson, owner of Coach for Your Dreams, provides unwavering support for professional, gifted and wise women who are ready to live life out loud with courage, confidence and clarity.

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