“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” ~ Walt Disney

When I mentioned my struggle about dreams to my close friend Terri she instantly shot back, “What about your guy? That author who wrote that dream book you love so much.” Her reminder was a gift from God.

When I said, “This book will move you!” I meant it. It inspired me to pursue my dream of moving from my hometown in the Washington DC area to the beaches of North Carolina. The book is Wide Awake by Erwin Raphael McManus.

I didn’t hesitate. I pulled it off my bookshelf and began reading immediately (again).

When I grow up I want to write like Erwin.

My take on the premise of the book is that God works his purpose in and through all of us, but we have to live wide awake – we have to dig deep to discover the potential lying within. One of my favorite chapters is about staying focused on the dream.

He writes, “If you don’t lock into the life God has called you to live, you will find yourself pulled and torn by everyone else’s desire and expectation for your life. . . If you do not develop the ability to say no to many important things, you’re going to lose the big yes of your life.”

Ain’t that the truth! This is where I have trouble – being pulled in different directions by others.

But here’s the amazing part. Midway through the book, God opened the door of opportunity to pursue one of my life’s dreams. This is something I’ve been wanting to do for 25 years but was starting to think it would never happen.

You know what? I took the opportunity. I’m in. I know it’s going to take loads of energy and faith to see it through, but I’m grateful for the chance to try.

God, if you read my blog, thank you for giving me a YES after all this time.

And of course, I would highly recommend this book if you’re looking to live wide awake too!

Your Turn: Do you have a delayed dream you’re praying about?