Why is it that as adults we tend to lose the miracle mindset of our youth?
Remember the feeling? Remember that CAN DO attitude we had as rambunctious, invincible five-year-olds?
Most of us at that age were convinced that we could do anything. Be anything. Have anything our little, precocious, pea-picking hearts desired.
I’m not talking about a sense of entitlement. I’m thinking more about the shift in our belief system, the poignant coming-of-age transition that suddenly rears its ugly head and mars our beautiful perception of ourselves and who were created to be.
Somewhere along the way, the melodrama of life creeps in and soils our seeds of confidence.
The pruning shears are sharp. Slowly, methodically, they slice away at our resolve. And our pretty petals of self-confidence begin to fall one by lonely one.
Our belief gardens start to grow weeds, and sadly, we settle for them because we tell ourselves they’re lovely. Weeds and all.
We don’t intentionally relinquish our dreams. In fact, it’s something we may not fully consider the first time or two it happens. Like with anything, it’s a process. Handing over that first one might require more effort, but the next time we do it, it becomes easier. And so does the next time.
We make excuses rather than admissions.
And suddenly, we glance around and realize our wishes have withered. Our dreams have faltered. Our prayers have paused. And our beliefs have crashed. Head-on into a brick wall.
We’re no longer yesterday’s child, but rather, that grown-up in the mirror.
When did it happen?
The when is probably not as important as the why. Once we figure that part out, then we can come to terms with what we’re going to do to change course.
Altering our mindset isn’t impossible. It just requires a plan of action. And implementation of that plan.
Here’s How:
Wish it. Every dream starts with a kernel of an idea. A long-held hope or deep-seated desire to reach a goal. It’s not magic, but we must have a miracle mindset.
See it. Envision what it is we want. Visualization is a huge influencer. The power of our thoughts is our greatest persuader.
Pray it. Humbly seek God’s direction. The Bible says that God longs to give us the desires of our hearts, BUT these must be in sync with His vision for us, and then we must use our gifts to glorify Him.
Believe it. I don’t necessarily mean that “name-it-and-claim-it” kind of thing, but we can’t be namby-pamby about it either. As Christians, if we truly believe Hebrews 11:1, we understand that we serve a big God who stands at the ready to answer our prayers. He wants to fulfill our grandest dreams. Even the humanly impossible ones because that’s God’s speciality!
And sometimes, during the pursuit of our dreams, our five-year-old miracle mindset returns.
While our vision might not be quite the same as God’s vision, His vision is best because it transcends ours.
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What dream are you pursuing today?
What steps are you willing to take to make it happen?
Photo Credit: chrisroll/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Blessings Always,
Comments 14
When I started writing, I told NO ONE. My pastor’s wife went to a conference and when she came back she had a letter she’d written for me. She said, “I don’t do this often, but I felt like God really pressed me to give you this.” I took and read a beautiful letter of encouragement and at the end it said, “I feel God is telling me to tell you DREAM BELIEVE PROCEED” I still have that letter and say those words all the time. Great post!
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Jess, isn’t it amazing how God works?!
I, too,have experienced those God-ordained moments that clearly demonstrated His hand on my life and left no doubt that I was to proceed. I firmly believe in divine appointments, and that must have been a goosebump moment as God used your friend to confirm your dream.
Love this, Cynthia. I think of this often, how fearless I was about the future when I was younger. I just believed everything would turn out great. I have a few mantras in my day planner that I refer to often. One is, “I believe God will always make a way where there is no way.”
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Jill, I think we all recall those carefree days of yesteryear. The years of our youth seemed fueled by a positivity and passion that sometimes changes as we mature.
I like your mantra idea. It’s a great way to stay encouraged!
You are such a fountain of inspiration. In this post and in your last post, there was something that I needed to hear…
I’ve been blessed with several dreams. My dream of becoming a mother and raising smart awesome kids has come true. I prayed for that since I was young. I have kids who are now going out in the world and making a difference for others who need help…I’m so proud.
But, now that the kids are grown and doing their own things, I have that other dream that has been patently waiting in the wings – my writing.
When I got an agent, my daughter said to my husband, “It’s like she’s living HER dream now.” Right then, it struck my heart that my kids always knew that there was another dream for myself…other than always revolving around them. They are my biggest fans.
I keep Hebrews 11:1 so it is the first thing I see when I turn on my computer. That verse got me through many a difficult time.
Great post, Cynthia
Author
Loree, you inspire me, too!
I think I can identify with your kids’ recognition of the fact that mom had a dream, as well. When our families recognize that we have our own goals and dreams, besides being the best wives and mothers we can be, it’s a heart-melter.
*patiently* typo – silly me – too much ice cream!
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Loree, don’t worry about typos… No grades allowed here.
Being a writer had been my dream from the time I was seven. Forty years passed before I pursued it. Embracing it wasn’t easy, but I did so with gusto. I told everyone I knew that I was writing a book, figuring that way I’d be committed to continue when the doubts came to call. They did and still do, but the support of my family and friends keeps me going. That and lots of prayer.
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Keli, I can so relate to some of this.
I’ve been writing for a long time, but had to put my writing on hold for a season. It’s wonderful that the Lord surrounds us with a lot of encouragers.
I’m beyond tickled that your dream is coming true, and I can’t wait until July!
What a lovely, encouraging post, Cynthia. Thank you!
I’ve always loved to write, and had many articles published, but God had to get my attention to help me be willing to write and publish a book. And I’ll say it again, “It’s not for wimps!” But, oh the joy of someone telling you with glistening eyes how the words you penned changed thier thinking…
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Jeanette, I think that’s when we realize that God is indeed working through us to spread His message. To touch lives is a powerful thing. To change lives because of (and for) Jesus is incredible!
I enjoyed learning more about you on Jill Kemerer’s blog this morning. I look forward to your book’s release.
Thank you for visiting!
Something truly divine going on here. This has added to a day that has been affirmation upon affirmation. Long awaited & much needed.
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Tonya, don’t you just love those “God things!” So thrilled for you and future decisions you are making!