Dreams, Changes, and Choices…

What I perceive more clearly nowadays is not limited to my own experiences as a survivor, but also how I observe the universe around me. Dreams test us, dreams connect us, and some dreams change and alter us…The other day, while walking in the park, I came across teenagers taking photos after or even before their graduation ceremony. All dressed in their gowns. And I couldn’t help but overhear one of them saying, “Now I will pursue the career that I want for myself. I’ve finished what my parents wanted!” I felt so sad, yet at the same time happy… and I will explain: After the terrorist attack I experienced, I spent years battling traumas I never imagined I would go through and questioning for hours why I had faced many situations. Today, when I look back, I see how fate places us at crossroads that sometimes lead us in a completely different direction from what our aspirations desired. And how our priorities change! This small reflection is simply intended to demonstrate that, regardless of the reason that redirected our aspirations and goals, our choices and how we act in such moments will play an important role during this new journey. It is where our values and principles will be tested in a real way and, who knows, with an even greater and more solid purpose than we ever dreamed of. Therefore, it is important to face changes head-on, whether expected or not, so that we can truly see the challenges imposed by any detour and thus reach our destination or rather conclude what we aspire or desire, regardless of the planned route. The world spins, the scenery changes, the seasons come and go, nothing is static. No matter how still we may feel, our life, our story, our experiences, and our legacy flow. When I realized the blessing I had of still being here and the possibility of recreating a new version of myself that is even stronger and more altruistic, it was then that I awakened to the new. I chose evolution, seeking each day to observe the lessons presented, turning to answers that most of the time are found within ourselves. Following this line, no matter what type of redirection you have to face, take your time to seek what truly inspires you, not what others aspire for you. The important thing is to recognize yourself and move forward, always paying attention to the signs along the way, to the detours, without allowing others to show you shortcuts they consider better for you. Always reevaluate yourself! Remember: it’s your life, your dreams, and your decisions. Always read the signs and signals, but always keep an eye on the rearview mirror so that the past landscape doesn’t distract or overwhelm you. Many times, people and situations pass through our lives and, with them, lessons, trials, and demonstrations of what we want and do not want. Someone once told me: “The best thing about the past is that it shows us what to bring and what not to bring into our future.” At the time, I thought it was a bit selfish, and somehow it stayed in my mind, after all, it is a lesson. Slowing down, being overtaken, should not serve as a reason to seek the first return you find ahead, but rather to understand your own rhythm amidst the flow around you. That’s the moment to appreciate the scenery, to renew dreams, to reevaluate your aspirations. It’s like a flame without a wick; it may lower the temperature a bit, but it will keep shining. Closing this small reflection, may your dreams, decisions, and actions help you connect with values and triumphs even more beautiful than you expected. May you always keep your flame at the ideal temperature and with the strength to move forward. And always positively and in evolution. For our choices will always and forever be with us, becoming our legacy. As a song from Minas Gerais says, “dreams do not age,” they transform.ADRIANA MALUENDASAuthor & Writerwww.alemdasexplosoes.com.br