To Dream The Impossible Dream

Those who abandon their dreams will discourage yours.

We used to call it the "cold water committee", people who can't stand to see the energy and passion of a mission, a dream, so they douse the dream of another. It happens often to young people who discover God, and then have a transforming experience because of it. The natural response, "GO TELL THE WORLD!" And often, they are encouraged to do so. But somewhere along the line, the enthusiasm (en-theos) takes on a life of its own, and like a locomotive on a straightaway, the power of such passion solicits fear from the onlooker. Why? Maybe it's because it looks like a runaway train, rather than a locomotive "on the right track". Why is it that thousands of screaming people in a football stadium are called "fans", but a single individual passionate about his relationship with the God of the universe is called a "fanatic"? The impossible dream is to believe that this world, as short sighted as it is, will embrace the dream of one who desires to share the freedom, peace, security, and passion found in a genuine relationship with God. More sad still, is the fact that very often the "cold water committee" is comprised of church goers: deacons, Sunday School teachers, or even pastors. I say, "Dream on!" Don't ever stop dreaming! And my earnest prayer, above all else, is that I will never be guilty of throwing cold water on the passion of a dream. (jgr)