Exploring Dreams and Realities: Journey Through Childhood Aspirations and Spiritual Pursuits
Growing up, I had several dreams that shaped my life, both in dissipating and evolving forms. Two of my most enduring aspirations will be discussed in this article. My childhood dream of moving to an ashram in India and the trajectory of my interest in show business will be explored, highlighting the lessons learned from each pursuit.
Childhood Dreams: The Ashram Adventure
When I was just 5 years old, my dream was simple yet profound: to live in an ashram in India. The term 'monastery' or 'hermitage' could best describe the type of place I envisioned. This dream stuck with me as a profound desire to live with faith and spirituality. While this dream didn't materialize, it did plant a seed of spiritual curiosity that grew in the years to come.
As I reflect on it now, I realize that an ashram isn't necessarily a specific building but a lifestyle situation where God is worshipped sincerely and with the utmost faith. Any place or home where this is the focal point of our lives can be an ashram. Throughout my life, I took a sabbatical in mid-life to explore the spiritual path, though not everyone has the luxury to do so. But the overarching lesson is that we can all make our own environment an ashram by making God the center of our lives.
Pursuing Dreams in Show Business: An Unusual Journey
My biggest dream, which was even more formative, was to be in show business. I was about 7 years old when this aspiration began to take shape. Over time, my interest in the performing arts solidified, particularly as I learned to play the piano and compose music. However, I quickly realized that piano lessons didn't match my passion for jazz and music in popular culture.
When I was asked by my school as to what I intended to become, I made the unexpected declaration that I wanted to play jazz in a nightclub. This dream was considered rather outlandish, as the prevailing cultural expectations were for a more 'sensible' career path, such as being a nurse, teacher, or typist. As I grew older, I pursued my dream by singing in various venues, eventually winning a place in a local drama college section. My dedication to music, despite facing opposition from those around me, was a testament to the strength of my dream.
Despite the challenges, I eventually moved to London, where I found work in hotels. Eventually, I got married, and then worked with my sons' father, though he didn't support my dream of becoming a performer. Karaoke became a lifeline during this period, a form of self-expression that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Today, I reflect on my journey and conclude that getting up and singing in front of people at these moments of joy and celebration was the essence of my dream. Even if it didn't lead to a traditional career in show business, the experience of performing and sharing music with others was immensely fulfilling. Thankfully, I passed on my love of music to my sons, though they eventually lost interest themselves.
As I look back on these experiences, I realize that while show business can be a ruthless moneymaking machine, the true joy lies in sharing your passion and connecting with others through art and music. It's a reminder that in the face of societal expectations and personal struggles, our dreams can indeed shape our lives, even if they take us on an unexpected path.