Are you a Wisher and a Hoper?

Many people are wishers and hopers. That is what keeps them going. They have something to strive for, to look forward to. Dreams can be motivating and are healthy to have. Developing ideas and having hope for its outcome keeps you going, even when things looks bleak. It keeps you creative and positive. 

Me? I try not to be a very big dreamer. Is that weird? 

My "Godfather," Lorraine Schilling.

Little dreamer.

I knew how to "work it" even then.

I purposefully choose not to get too excited about things before they come to fruition. 

I dreamed of this day for a long time.

Student of the Year in 5th Grade!

I have been this way since I was a child. My mother LOVES to tell the story of when she excitedly told me she had a gift for me and I, in a monotone voice, said “Get it.” 

I had learned that some of her presents could be math workbooks or used socks (not really!) and had chosen to not get excited. 

For me, the proof has always been in the pudding.

Climbing my first "Fourteener" with my dad and cousin.

Undergraduate graduation.

 

I have seen this same dynamic in myself many times as an adult- I learn about an opportunity and work for it, but I don’t let my thoughts run away into dreamland. I always find that I get disappointed and if not, I’m happily surprised. 

I think that I have developed this mechanism as a way to protect myself against my propensity towards depression and anxiety. Sometimes I can feel my disappointment very acutely.

And, it’s worked for me, for the most part. 

The hubby: Probably trying to dig to China!

But sometimes people think I’m a “wet blanket.” I am constantly warning my husband against getting too excited about something, and he is constantly encouraging me to think “BIG.” I think that is one way that we balance each other out. 

Who thought of moving to Africa? He did. Am I glad he did? Of course!

I think many of my bigger steps in life have been prompted by others to dream to hope, to wish for better. Their support has been invaluable.

Me in South Africa. Spot the doggie behind me?

I hope that dreaming can come more easily to me one day. I want to teach our (future) children to “reach for the stars” and to work hard to achieve their dreams. 

So, are you a wisher and a hoper?

Song of the Post: Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey. 

This brings me back to a certain bachelorette party in NYC!