I have always been a dreamer. When I was younger, I dreamed of being little orphan Annie on Broadway (kinda impossible because I’m Filipino). Then, when Grease came out, I dreamed of being Sandy…again, impossible. In my mind I knew those were not the roles for me, but I never gave up on the dream of singing and dancing on a stage. Thinking back, I never really had any other dreams or goals besides that. Fortunately in my short 40+ years of life, I have been on many a stage. I’ve been on television, radio, and I even got my chance to sing on a Broadway stage (not quite in a show…long story for another day). When I received the call that my cancer had returned a few years back, I reassessed what my dreams and goals were. I knew singing may be over for me (because of my paralyzed vocal cord and where my cancer was), but I sat and thought about the things I would want to do if I had nothing stopping me. My list included writing a book, learning a new instrument, mastering a new language, running a marathon among other things. As I looked at the list when I finished, I wondered what took me so long? Learning a new instrument or langauge? Just start. Training for a marathon, writing a book? Just start.
Why does it take a slap on the face with your own mortality to sit and think about what things you want to do or accomplish in life? Life is short and my list included some of the simplest things, nothing so grandiose that it could not be done. I haven’t checked everything off my list and there are things I can no longer do (like running a marathon because after cancer returned a third time, it took a toll on my breathing), but that’s ok. My bucket list is forever revolving. It revolves around my health, my finances, and my family; it revolves around my kids and what I wish for them. Besides my selfish desires to get back in shape, travel to Europe, learn the guitar, etc, I also have the desire to be remembered and to leave a positive legacy for my kids. When I got the call that my cancer had returned a third time, I forgot about my list, I don’t even know where it is anymore because I don’t need it. I know for a fact life can change in a second, with one phone call. Life is an adventure to be lived daily. Dreams, goals, bucket list, resolutions…whatever it is, what’s stopping you? When I think of something I want to do now, I start on that path, sometimes I get there, sometimes not. Think, start, live!
Today I wear Stila Lip Glaze in Kaleidoscope a sparkly pink (which is part of a limited edition holiday set). Soft enough to wear on top of lipstick to add a hint of pink, I chose it because when you look in a Kaleidoscope, the shapes are everchanging, but still beautiful…just like your dreams!
Anna's Lipstick Journey 
This is the best advice anyone can ever give anyone else! Desire it, plan it, start it! I love, love this blog! You are my kinda gal!
life can change on a dime, that is so true. I’ve experienced those calls, it is nice to know the most important things do not change or need to be chased. (thinking of my family and friends) LIVE!
I like that…the most important things don’t need to be changed or chased! Thank you!
I think a lot of us take life for granted until one has that eye opening moment. Sounds like you’re dealing with your cancer in a positive manner. Hang in there, miracles happen and prayer is a good place to start.
Joyce
http://joycelansky.blogspot.com
Thank you so much for your kind words! I hope to always keep it that simple…just start!
Thank you Joyce! I absolutely believe in miracles and the power of prayer…even more so now. Thank you again!
Great advice! “Just start.”
I haven’t gotten that call, and for that I am thankful. But I understand what you’re talking about. One afternoon after work, a woman I knew went for a walk with a couple of friends. By suppertime, one of them was dead, and my young, athletic friend was broken into pieces, victims of a drunk driver whose car jumped the curb and ran them down. My friend “recovered,” but she will never be athletic again. She will hurt all the rest of her days. That event more than any other made me realize how transient our health and even our lives are. And that’s why I went to Scotland last year. (More on that when I get to my bucket list.) : – )
Heartbreaking story, yes, life can change in an instant..glad you went to Scotland. Keep living life to the full!
The biggest tragedy in life is to discoverthat at the end of you’ve been pulling “an empty wagon”. A collection of colorless days all piled in that have “no weight”.
Rest assured, your wagon is full and Very Heavy…..just take a look at all that Lipstick!!
Keep the energy turned up high, share the laughter and love, the rest will come naturally!
Peace & Blessings…Marc 🙂
Thank you Marc! I love your responses, they are so poetic. Yes, my wagon overfloweth!
Beautiful post. I think if we can say “I lived the life I wanted to live” then that is enough. love and hugs.
Thank you Suzy!
What a great post–just do what you have your heart set on doing. Just start–you’ll never cross the finish line if you don’t!! Cheers, Jenn.
Thank you Jenn. Following what’s been placed in your heart is a great place to start! (I didn’t mean to rhyme but it made sense)
words that ring true……
how do i follow you?… i don’t see a button for it…
Hi Daphne!Thank you for the kind words. In terms of following, I think you hhave to create a wordpress account? I’ll check it out!
Excellent, excellent post! We’ve got right now, so now is the time to get on with it.
Thank you Beth!
Wow! Your positive attitude and your outlook on life is such an inspiration. I pray that God’s grace and mercy will see you through.
Thank you Karen! I feel very blessed!
Think, start, live!
You’re my hero!
You’re too kind, thank you!