Dreams, Recognition, and Giving

A while back, I received an award recognizing some work I had done for the community. And someone gave me a piece of advice I didn’t fully understand at the time. They said, “Watch what happens after this… because of that.”

It stuck with me. And only years later did I truly understand what they meant.

You see, I never did anything expecting a trophy, a thank-you, or even applause. My drive has always been simple: How can I make something better? Who or what deserves to be seen, heard, or lifted up?

And what I’ve learned is this: people do notice. Maybe not always right away. But the purity behind your actions, the heart behind your effort, shines through.

My mother used to tell me, “Leave a place cleaner than you found it.” I took that further. I try to leave any place, any space, better than I found it, whether that’s a room, a relationship, or a community.

So, if you're out there chasing a dream, giving your all, wondering if it matters, trust me, it does. Keep going. Because your work will enrich you in ways you never expected. One day, someone will tap you on the shoulder and say, “We see you.”

And when that moment comes, please, take the victory lap. You’ve earned it.

Photo Credit: Darryl Evans of Pure Enchantment Photography