Last night I read this quote from Joel Barker to my Incubator group, “Vision without action is a dream. Action without vision is simply passing the time. Action with Vision is making a positive difference.” We talked about how important it is to have a clear vision of where you’re headed and how that vision makes it easier to continue moving forward with focused action even when times are challenging.
One of my dearest friends, Brighid, exemplifies how action with vision makes a positive difference. As an avid advocate for mental health, she founded the non-profit Cheryl’s Dreaming Big to shed light on mental illness. Through theatre performances, sharing personal stories and facilitating dialogue, CDB is breaking the stigma of mental illness, generating awareness and having a positive impact in schools and communities in the Chicago area.
The other day, I watched the Cheryl’s Dreaming Big video above. I was so inspired to see Brighid’s vision come to life in such a profound way. A couple of years ago, I co-designed and co-led a CDB leadership program with Brighid. I learned so much through partnering with her and being a part of CDB. I learned how mental illness can impact people when it’s not addressed openly. I learned that there’s such a spectrum of mental illness and that there are probably times when many of us, myself included, have danced at the edge. I learned to have deeper compassion for those who struggle with mental health challenges. I also learned the power of having a big dream and mobilizing people to take action and create positive change.
I can’t wait to see Brighid’s vision for mental health awareness and education spread across the country and the world. She is truly an amazing person up to amazing things!
I realy thank bloging , it has made me read fantastic posts well gifted inspiring blogers and you are one of my cream friends. Jennifer, l have also something , maybe you might peep my site! Keep it up!