I like the dictionary definition: The ability to think about, or plan the future, with imagination and wisdom. Certainly a major component of the how and why we do this.
The World View
Working for the man, I hear words like mission statements, objectives, purpose, values and vision.
What is the search engine definition? A bunch of corporate speak on the how, why and variations thereof. It is a parroting of many courses offered by universities. I reject this.
This post’s subject is not about visualizing world peace, eliminating hunger, eliminating homelessness or any of humanities nobler goals. These are important but I can not directly change them.
A great teacher once said, “With out vision the people perish.” I agree.
If there is no dream, how can there be a guide post? Dreams are a vehicle for transforming ideas in into something real, something that is tangible, that will affect others.
What About Me?
Vision is a chance to close my eyes and see the fulfillment of dreams and aspirations. What is my commitment? Why is this meaningful? What is the process? When?
Pretty much end of story, right?
Personalized Vision
My two to five year plans didn’t work. Did yours?
If you are like me, you change your mind a lot.
It doesn’t mean we are flaky or indecisive. Particulars and circumstances are not static; there is wisdom in rearranging thought processes.
The most important vision I can actualize is for myself and for my family.
Who has dictated my vision? My Family, job, church, girl friends, and chums. There are a whole lot of people willing to tell me what my vision should be.
They believe their vision is more practicable. They wonder how come I’m not smarter. The fact of the matter – it is a vision for their selfish ends.
With out my personal vision there is no destination to attain. Now is the time to stop ambling along. What am I looking for? Why wait?
Music has always been there. I can’t get way from it. Put it down, sell everything and after season I would be right back at it.
Of course there exists those who are more qualified and far more successful. You may ask, “Why even make the attempt?”
The thing is, I can’t comprehend giving up.
Change
Seeking perfection is the enemy of new ideas. Many ideas are embarrassingly lame; I know mine are. Embracing and only acting upon the perfect concept is a safeguard. You don’t want to look stupid.
What I have learned over the years is that what I envision changes. From the heady days of spending month after month on the road to quietly playing in weekend club bands, to writing music, to putting together my own recording studio.
As I keep searching for ways to improve my situation, there is a better chance of finding them. Furthermore, by discontinuing this habit, it is guaranteed nothing new will be found.
The vision I had at twentytwo does not belong to today.
Being Passionate
Vision is everything. When I was with out it, or when I lived in the expectations of others, there was no real excitement, no anticipation, just mindless wandering. Now I am able to see past the garbage and work towards that which does not yet exist.
What I can imagine ties to understanding myself.
There have been those who have conceptualized their vision as my path to fulfillment. “Do this and that,” they say, “and you will realize the other thing.” “Listen to my words and do as so-and-so did and blah, blah, blah…” I’ve heard it all before.
How much has to put to the side to realize dreams? I am not willing to sacrifice for the vision of another. I once delighted in social expectations and responsibilities. There are no regrets from casting them aside.
I’m sure that those who have gone before us did not walk down a perfectly straight line; they did not hit very road marker that identified their path, did not celebrate every little victory and achievement, that the course wasn’t always true north. But what they could do was communicate eloquently where they saw themselves going and deal with challenges in their way. They fought, and continue to fight, the good fight.
What we envision, we can bring into reality. I seek to do so consciously, collaboratively, and responsibly.
Have you seen the mystical place called “There”?
I have envisioned what it would be like. I do not want miss the pleasure and adventure along the way.
Is there any way we can help?
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