“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” – Howard Thurman
Watching Super Bowl 50 was a great reminder of how important it is to maintain our own vision for what we wan. The game was particularly satisfying if you are a fan of great defense. What stuck out was the fact that the two quarterbacks came in with a victory in mind, and only one achieved that goal.
While this might seem unfair, or disheartening to some, there are lessons that we can all benefit from. Peyton Manning, for example, has lost multiple Super Bowls, has been accused of being too robotic, and choking at crunch time. Yet, here he is, on top of the world, at the end of a year of many low points and critics saying that he had lost it.
Cam Newton, on the other hand, came in with a head of steam. He was coming off a host of amazing performances leading up to the Super Bowl. Many feared that his team would run over the Broncos and that this would be a lopsided victory for the Carolina Panthers. In the wake of this game, there will be some that question everything that he does.
In both cases, it is clear that anyone who wants to achieve their deepest dreams must find a way to function from a place outside of the opinion of others. History is constantly rewriting itself, and those who have experienced the greatest defeats have often risen to the greatest heights. In order to get where we truly desire to be, we must tap into the dreams that reside within our own hearts, beyond the opinions of even the most well-intentioned critics and naysayers.
There are students in our school district who appear to be troublemakers, destined for failure. It takes an inspired eye to look beyond the common measurements that are used on these young people and see a deeper potential. It is the ability to recognize and activate this potential that makes a great teacher.
It is amazing how quickly a young person’s experience of life can change if they are equipped with the right lens through which to view themselves and the world. I have seen students go from depressed and withdrawn, to confident and engaged, by simply pointing out that the things they love are valuable and worth celebrating. It is wonderful to see an awkward young man with a knack for drawing find himself surrounded by friends and teachers who appreciate his unique gifts and talents. All it takes is a change in perspective.
The key to inspiring others is to first recognize the dreams and highest visions within ourselves. My greatest teachers often experienced their share of adversity. Through support and inner determination, they moved through those situations into success and joy. It is the wisdom that comes from experience that speaks the loudest to young people who yearn to be inspired and encouraged.
Peyton Manning could have thrown in the towel two years ago when he lost to the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl. Cam Newton might well have abandoned his dreams when he was cut from the team in college and had to spend time at a community college before leading Auburn to a National Championship. It was desire, coupled with the support of those who saw their potential, that allowed both of these men to face off in Super Bowl 50, on the world’s largest stage.
If there is a dream that is pulling on your heart, take some time to listen. Allow yourself space to imagine what might be possible for you if you were not limited by any circumstances or conditions. By devoting a small amount of time each day to affirming your own dreams, you will fuel a fire within you that never truly goes out. The world benefits from people who know who they are and have the courage to share their gifts. The young people are watching. They want permission to shine, and the best way to give that permission is to radiate our own joy.
Edward Biagiotti is the Inclusion Specialist for Culver City Unified School District. He is also co-host of the popular radio show, Funniest Thing! with Darrell and Ed, to find out more go to www.DarrellandEd.com. Visit www.TappingIntoGenius.com for more articles and a free, inspirational parenting download.
