Ode to My Enabler

 

       In my opinion, everyone should have what I like to call an "enabler."  I think my enabler is probably the best thing that's happened to me (when he serves in this capacity).  In fact, now that I think about it, I've been lucky to have two in my lifetime ( okay, so maybe luck had nothing to do with it). 

       I get bored easily.  Even as a child my dreams seemed to vary from day to day. Sunday, I wanted to be a ballerina, Wednesday, a doctor. By the time Friday rolled around, I wanted to be both! In those days my "enabler" was my dad. So when I expressed these ideas to him, he always encouraged me, no matter how silly they sounded. I think that when he passed away, that might have been one of my biggest losses- that I no longer had someone to enable me to dream.

       Now, as woman, I'd like to think that my dreams have somewhat matured, as have I. Still, some of my ideas and ideals seem a bit far fetched. I remain blessed because though my father is no longer with me, I still have someone to bounce my ideas off of. He listens to all of my craziness. He even encourages me, no matter how crazy I think it sounds. In his eyes, there's nothing I cannot do; everything I pitch, flies! How amazing is that; to throw an idea out there, and have someone say "you can do it" vs. someone saying "yea, right" or "girl, you're crazy!"

       So I asked him one day, why he would listen to and entertain all my madness; and why would he chime in, adding details to the dream? He told me simply, that he genuinely supports me and my ideas. He truly believes that I can do anything. 

       That may not mean much to many, but to me, it meant the world to have someone so supportive. In fact, it saved my life, on more than one occasion. This same person that believes in you is also the one who will pick you up when you fall, dust you off, and give you the strength when you can't find it within yourself. Sadly, not everyone has such a person in their lives. So I am thankful that I do. It's so easy to get side-tracked, discouraged even. Surely you shouldn't count on others to make things happen for you. However, it's truly a blessing to have at least one person who believes in your dream too, and will help you however they can to make sure it comes true. 

       To anyone who does not have an enabler,  let me be your enabler right now, and remind you that you are great! Anything you set your mind to, you can achieve. No dream is too small nor too big. It's YOUR dream. Go get it! 

       For those who have an enabler, be thankful and celebrate them for helping you accomplish your dreams!