The famous comedian, game show host, and talk show icon Steve Harvey learned a life-changing lesson when he was just a boy—and it’s a message worth remembering today. When Steve was in grade school, his teacher asked the class to write down their biggest dream. Steve proudly wrote that he wanted to be on TV. Instead of celebrating his bold vision, the teacher thought it was outrageous and called his father to discipline him.
But instead of scolding his son, Steve’s father did something remarkable. He asked Steve, “Is that really what you want?” When Steve said yes, his dad told him to write it down, put it in a drawer, and look at it every day as a reminder of his dream. Then, he said, “Tomorrow, just write something you think the teacher wants to hear.” Steve took his father’s advice to heart. Years later, when he was on TV – every single day – he sent that teacher a television set every Christmas—just as a reminder that dreams do come true.
Three Lessons from Steve Harvey’s Story
1. Write it down. There is power in putting your dream on paper and looking at it often. It keeps your vision alive and in front of you.
2. Ignore the naysayers. When someone says you can’t do something; it often reveals more about their own limitations than about your potential.
3. Appreciate your encouragers. We all have people who believe in us. Cherish them. Reach out to thank the coaches, mentors, teachers, and friends who stood in your corner.
I know I’m lucky. Growing up on Mercer Island, Washington, I had exceptional teachers like Coach Jackson, who always supported me. He was my P.E. teacher in junior high school and high school, and we are still friends to this day. In fact, I have dinner with him and his wife, Terry every time I visit family in the Seattle area. Their encouragement mattered then—and still does today.
Your Front-Row Friday Challenge This week, write down a dream you’ve been carrying inside you. Keep it where you can see it every day. And then, take a moment to reach out to someone who has believed in you along the way. A simple “thank you” can mean the world.
Be like Steve Harvey—hold on to your dream, write it down, and believe it’s possible…that’s how you lead a front-row life!
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
