Dream Before You Speak

"As you enter positions of trust and power, dream a little before you speak." - Toni Morrison, Pulitzer Prize- and Novel Prize-winning writer

Dream before speaking - that's a great directive.  I've had the honor and privilege to speak in public from time to time and I've often found it goes much better if I say a prayer and ask my Higher power to speak through me.  I ask for the ability to speak to that one person in the room ho really needs to hear what I have to say.  If I focus on helping others and set aside my ego, I can speak from the heart.  

The last time I spoke in public, I asked a friend of mine to keep me in her prayers so that I could bring a sense of hope to the audience that night.  She sent back the most beautiful prayer for me.  It affirmed that God's thoughts be my thoughts, God's words be my words, and God's heart be my heart.  It was the perfect affirmation for me that evening.  It went well that night and it felt as if I was speaking from a deeper place in my heart.  I received so much love and positive feedback from all of my friends. It happened as a direct result of asking for support. Positive thoughts and energy were sent my way, and I let go of the outcome.

It pays to dream before you speak, no matter how big or small your audience may be.  We all need help and encouragement from time to time.  May I always be sure to make helping others my priority. And, may I always dream and pray before I speak to anyone.