“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,” - Eleanor Roosevelt. Life is a journey filled with dreams and aspirations. Sometimes, we find ourselves in the second half of our lives, wondering if it's too late to chase our dreams. The answer is a resounding no! Age should never be a barrier to embracing our passions, making a change, and daring to dream. I recently returned from a unforgettable trip to Paris that serves as an inspiration to believe dreams do come true.

Thirty-three years ago, almost to the day, I stood at the base of the Eiffel Tower gazing up as the rain gently fell. There were only a few minutes to spare before heading to the airport. There hadn’t been time earlier to explore or experience the beautiful wrought-iron structure due to the tour schedule. Leaving, I knew one day I would return. That dream stayed in my heart until recently when it became a reality. Although you may think thirty-three years is a long time to wait for a dream to come true, life’s responsibilities and obligations took priority even though the flame of that image never died.

Making a change and daring to dream requires overcoming obstacles that might interfere with the path. Like the fear of stepping out of your comfort zone, other financial obligations, or the thought that it was too late to make your dream a reality. I was able to silence those doubts and take the leap towards the long awaited journey.

Making a dream come true involves more than wishful thinking; it requires strategic planning and action. Each step I took brought me closer to making it a reality. Even though I waited many years, my heart told me when the time was right, and the perfect opportunity appeared.

My dream wasn’t just about making it back to Paris, but also about the transformational journey that brought me to this point right now. It was also having the opportunity present itself and having the courage to say yes, despite the fear of the unknown.

My heart was calling me back to the City of Lights, to stand not only at the base of the Eiffel Tower but to experience it from the top, the sides, at every angle, during the day and again at night. I met new people, immersed myself in the culture, and expanded my view of the world.

As women in our second half, we possess wisdom, experience, and a unique perspective that can shape our dreams into reality. The journey back to Paris serves as a shining example of the power of embracing our dreams and the gratification that comes from making a change. What are you dreaming into reality? It’s never too late to pursue passions and make dreams come true.

xoxox…..Sheryl

PS … “Paris exists to remind you that your dreams are real,” - unknown.

PSS … There wasn’t any rain in sight, only beautiful sunny days and mild spring evenings.