I was achy, exhausted and overworked when I walked the nearly six blocks to see the musical, “Cinderella,” at Fiorello LaGuardia H.S. at 6:30 p.m. But, I was happy to be there with my mentee Emily.

As we waited for the show to start, we discussed Emily’s college applications. She told me she was only applying to schools in state to save money. She also said was planning to major in Fine Arts. I immediately asked if she’d considered a double major to give herself a backup plan. Emily told me her mom suggested the same thing but she’d ruled it out.

That’s foolish, I thought. It’s extremely difficult to make it as an artist. If she doesn’t, what other practical experience does she have that will get her a job?

I kept thinking about this as I watched talented students belting out songs, operating elaborate puppets, playing live music, and moving and constructing sets. I knew all of them wouldn’t get to live out their dreams as an artist but, I thought, at least they’re happily pursuing their passion. They believe in themselves.

A few minutes later, the fairy godmother and Cinderella transformed in front of my eyes on stage; it was magical. It was done in a way that wasn’t possible when I was in high school. And, I was swept up by the lyrics in their duet:

“Keep building up impossible hopes.
Impossible things are happenning every day!”

I turned to Emily and urged her to pursue her dreams with unwavering commitment and effort. I told her I used to be an “artist,” a “singer,” and I dreamed of being a professional writer. I thought it was impossible. But, I am a writer full-time and an author and blogger, regardless of my level of success. The impossible happened for me and perhaps it will for her too.

#invisibleillness #chronicillness #chronicpain #disability #autoimmunedisease #spoonie #igg4 #dreamsconetrue #dontstopbelieving #Cinderella #mentoring #nevergiveup