Dream Big

I have always had big goals and aspirations for my life. The world is constantly telling us to “dream big” and “believe in yourself.” Due to my dreams for my life, I have already had experiences and accomplishments I once did not believe possible. However, during a time of growth in my relationship with God, I realized that my heart was in the wrong place.

As much as I love impressive achievements, the fulfillment only lasts for a brief moment. When I am on my death bed, no one, including myself, will care if I won that debate competition or basketball game in high school. People will not remember me for my accolades, but instead for my actions. Maya Angelou once said something that has always remained with me, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” As someone who is known for her accomplishments, I admire Angelou’s wisdom in this statement. I hope people remember me as kind and loving. I hope they remember me as a servant. I hope they remember me for having a generous heart and a genuine soul. But ultimately, I hope others will one day look at my life and say, “Wow, she really loved Jesus.”

Grand accomplishments are not a bad thing. I still have dreams and goals, and encourage others to do the same. However, if God’s plans are different for me, I still have hope that He is faithful and truly has the best plan for my life, whatever that may be.

I used to live for my achievements. That will never fully satisfy me. Now instead, I live for Jesus. Following His calling for my life, and using the opportunities He has given me, I believe I have accomplished many great things. So as I continue through life, I desire to follow Him day in and day out. I have professional goals, such as to become a successful lawyer, but I know that I do not need to live to impress others or to accomplish big things. Because in the end, He is the only thing that matters.