The Birth of a Vision
IF YOU LISTEN CAREFULLY YOU WILL HEAR I always reflect on how the flame in my heart started. I remember it like it was yesterday; I was commencing the third year of my studies in university. I was pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. As the first semester progressed I became overwhelmed by the extensive research and culinary practical, all while preparing for final exams. I imagined that the academic year would have been challenging but not so soon. Before I returned to campus that semester, I had prayed and asked the Lord for fresh wind and new beginnings. My prayers didn't stop my worry; I soon became overly concerned about my exam results, hoping I would pass them all. I always had a fear of exams. I can recall one morning during one of my devotion exercises, the Lord instructed me to begin a period of fasting and prayer for seven (7) days. While on the fast, I remember asking the Lord for strength and favour to complete my final year. On the last day, to close the fast in the early hours of the morning I had a dream. In this dream, I was on a hill, climbing a tree full of leaves and thorns. Larger trees blocked the view, but I felt like I was searching for something, so I decided to climb a little further.
While climbing the tree I realized that the branches began to look and feel flexible; a strong wind shook the tree as I gripped tighter for fear of falling. The higher I climbed the stronger the wind blew and the more the tree swayed. I thought it best to get down before the branch broke free. Yet there was another voice in my mind saying do not let go, the storm will soon pass. So, I held on even though the branch bent so far that I could touch the ground. The wind soon calmed down and I was able to see. There was nothing above the trees. I could see a beautiful and clear view of the ocean touching the sky. I then awoke from this dream feeling nervous and wondered what it meant. I immediately prayed and asked God to reveal its true meaning to me. I decided to call my sister who was living in Grand Cayman to share the details of the dream. My sister asked, “Are you worried about anything?” Of course I was; I was concerned about my exams. She explained her understanding of my dream. She replied, “God is going to elevate you in your studies, but you will be faced with situations that will discourage you. The road to success is going to be prickly but hold on to Jesus". Based on what my sister said, so it happened; . The new school year began, it was time for the work to begin. Soon after I began to experience feelings of depression and fear of not being able to complete my final semesters. There were constant negative thoughts in my mind.
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