Holiness in our Midst: Session 129

SESSION CXXIX: ON ‘DREAMS FULFILLED’

Story Circle Prompt: Share a story about a dream fulfilled.

Because I have a fondness for live musical theater, a reverence for Africa and a penchant for wild creativity, seeing a production of The Lion King with Broadway actors has long been at the top of my “Bucket List,” aka as my “Things to Do Before I Die” list. On April 16, 2023, with help from friends new and old, I checked off this wish. 

As I relive my dream come true, I realize the magic was not just in the show at the Civic Center in Des Moines, though there was plenty with “elephants” suddenly emerging from aisles and actors swinging from rafters—all moving to the constant beat of African drums. A good share of the lasting beauty was that I was accompanied on my journey. Because I am a bona fide fraidy cat driving interstates by myself in rain and snow, and especially navigating downtown Des Moines at night, friends gladly stepped in to provide meals (Italian pasta) and snacks (homemade chocolate chip cookies), transportation (curbside service), and lodging (a cozy bed) for this adventure of a lifetime. There was even a Lion King poster, deluxe booklet, and backpack waiting for me in my seat at the theater! In asking for some assistance, I received abundantly. A simple wish, stated out loud, became a spiritual experience. (I am, of course, available to make my friends’ dreams come to fruition.) I am still humming the theme song, “Circle of Life,” as I dream new dreams. Do you have a story of a dream fulfilled?

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, answer the following: What is one thing you would like to do, see, or experience in your lifetime? What is the first step you can take to make this dream come true?

FOR GROUP STUDY: 

1.  Read aloud Session CXXIX.
2.  Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt.

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com