Feathers and Cages: Living Your Dream
© Mary Wilson
There is a saying in the horse world: "Throw your heart over the fence and the horse will follow." I've tried to embody this saying in my own life. For it is well known that if you do what you love and work hard at it, making your living at it will follow.
Even if you don't plan on making a living with your birds, as long as you're doing what you love, both you and the birds will benefit. You'll benefit because pets and relaxing activities are healthy for us, and the birds will benefit because they have an owner who loves them.
Of course, my other love is writing, and I am always thankful for opportunities to combine the two. Really, this column is a living manifestation of my dream. Not only do I get to write, and get paid for it, but I write about my most favorite animals in the word, birds.
If I could give advice to those out there wishing to pursue their dreams, whether bird related or not, I would say the following:
1. Don't let anyone make fun of your dreams.
Dreams are highly personalized, and what you dream is strictly for you. If you want to build an aviary and breed exotic finches, or simply retire to a house along the lake, I say dream it.
2. Set goals for your dreams.
It's okay to dream, but you'll have more of a chance of achieving your dreams if you set goals. Start small, then work your way into larger steps toward your dream.
Words cannot express the happiness I've received from chasing my dreams. People look at me funny when I mention that I didn't go to college, instead I'm working at becoming a full time writer and bird breeder, but their opinions don't matter to me. I know that what I am doing brings great personal satisfaction, and you know, that's the only thing that counts.
I'd love to hear about your bird related dreams. May we all achieve them.
Go To Page: 1
