It's fun to dream and plan what life could be like for us and our families. Do you really believe those things are within your reach? Do you think certain things are but others are not? Let's retrain that mind of yours.



First of all, let's talk about talk. Talk is cheap. Dreams are too. However, dreams and talking about dreams have a special importance. If you examine how many great achievements in our society have begun with brainstorming, it becomes crystal clear that both vision and dialog are crucial.

Vision - great word! A Biblical proverb reminds us that without vision people parish. Vision is similar to faith. Faith is known as the belief in things unseen. Vision is the ability to see your aspirations reaching fruition in the minds eye.

So the key to achieving your dreams starts with vision. See your dreams coming true in your thoughts as you go about each day. Believe that such a vision will one day be seen right there in front of you, in the real world. Trust that you will hold in your hand what you have been praying for. The adage, Keep your eyes on the prize is a testament to the value of vision.

Although talking and dreaming are good, it is possible to talk an idea to death. Don't spend all of your time talking and daydreaming. The second key to success is action. You must act on your faith in things unseen. You cannot just wait around for your day to come. You must strive for that day, no matter how far away it might seem. The fact is that you are closer than you think. There is a blue sky just around the bend if you'd just hold on a little longer.

One devastating thinking process many of us fall prey to is the perpetual if only statement. We say that we could do this or that, if only. This is dangerous. There will always be an if only. To end this cycle, start by looking around you at what you have to be thankful for. Count your blessings. Find the value in each and every little thing: clean running water, the sweet sound of a bird's song, love, family, friendship, and warm blankets' not to mention the many luxuries we are blessed to have.

Don't get caught up in the future before you acknowledge the beauty of the present. After all, you never know when this will be your last now. Think of the present as a present, as a gift. Think of the presence of those you love as a present as well.

A thankful heart is a happy heart. If you are happy with little, you will appreciate it when your dreams finally do come true. And they will. Keep believing.