In reading through the live chat comments from yesterday’s Facebook Launch Party for Dreams That Won’t Let Go, I realized that we ran out of time before I could respond to comments about the key themes explored in the novel: guilt, fear, jealousy, heartbreak, forgiveness, rebellion, hope, unconditional love, and of course, dreams.
I asked party guests which word best describes the current status of their dream, and several said fear.
Just wanted to follow up and share that most of the characters in Dreams That Won’t Let Go also are hampered by fear. Indigo fears getting close to her brother; Reuben fears that he’ll never be accepted; Mama (Aunt Irene) fears the worst if she loosens her hold on Yasmin; and Yasmin fears her dreams will die.
What should we do when our fears keep us from moving toward what we most desire?
First, be reassured that fear is healthy. It’s a normal part of life. Just like a baby is often afraid to let go of a parent’s hand and take that first step, adults also fear the unknown. We question whether we’re strong enough, smart enough or capable enough to succeed.
Feel those fears, then decide to move forward anyway. Take small steps toward your goal (just as a baby does) and trust that God won’t let you hurt yourself. You may stumble, you may wobble; but if you ask for his direction and wisdom, he’ll catch you before you fall, close doors you shouldn’t walk through, and steer you in the right direction.
So acknowledge the fear. Greet it and then send it on its way!
Decide that 2010 will be the year to write your “someday list; outline steps to get you from here to there; and work toward checking off as many steps as you can, to bring you closer to making your dream a reality.
In the end, your faith will have trumped the fear that once loomed so large.
When you win, I’d love to hear about it! Write me here, on my website blog, or on my Facebook Fan Page - Stacy Hawkins Adams Books -and let me know about the dreams you’ve decided to bring to life.
All the best on your journey!