Happy Friday, RISERS! I hope this week has been good to you. This coming Monday is Valentine’s Day. While it is typically a day for couples, I want to send you lots of love today. You are amazing, one-of-a-kind—and the only one of you. I’m glad you’re you.
Quote of the week: “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” –Harriet Tubman
Song of the week: Since we are talking about dreams in this blog, I want to introduce you to a song from the soundtrack of the 1980 movie Xanadu. It’s called “Magic” by Olivia Newton-John. The movie Xanadu depicts the life of a down-on-his-luck painter/artist and how the mysterious woman he runs into helps him realize his potential. The song talks about how your dreams come alive when you keep your thoughts focused and on target. The music is catchy, and Olivia Newton-John sings quite a few songs on the soundtrack. The legendary Gene Kelly finished his acting and singing career with Xanadu, which is one of my favorite period movies. If you like musicals, you may like it. To really date myself, the song “Magic” is excellent to roller skate to…
Joke of the week: I think my algebra teacher is a pirate. All she wants to do is find X.
Nugget of Wisdom for the week: We have talked before about the importance of following our dreams. But I do want to add that if you don’t have a specific goal or a plan you can envision, you won’t get excited enough to achieve what you want in life. Your dreams motivate you to get out there and make a difference in the world. You’ve got this. Be the best you can be!
Podcast of the week: This week, adoptee advocate Simon Benn talks us through the three Cs of pursuing business pursuits or professional endeavors: connection, conversation, and curiosity. Click here to listen to Simon’s podcast, “Making Our Dreams Come True.”
Have a great week. Remember, you are most awesome, and YOU ROCK!
Marion Rhines is a foster-turned-adoptive parent. She lives in Knoxville, Tenn., with her husband and five children. She has written and published two children’s books as well as two foster-care-themed novels. She has a Facebook blog, Tips from the FLIP Side, and enjoys working with children of all ages.