Have you ever felt like your thoughts and opinions don’t matter or are invalid? I know I have on multiple occasions. These thoughts have been effected by some past professors, older generations who have shed their “glorious” wisdom on me, articles I have read online and more.

It often feels like society is trying to “shhh” the current generation and it can affect the way we live and think. A stigma can sometimes come with being grouped into the stereotype of “millennials”. This stereotype usually entails ideas of being consumed with technology, self-absorbed, lazy and inconsistent.

I believe this is a huge generalization and ignores the fact that this generation is commonly able to think outside of the box and bring fresh, new ideas, environmentally conscious, encouraging and valuable experiences.

If you are like me, you may be able to relate to the prior comments.

So, when someone takes the time to ask me questions and take note of what is stirring in my mind, it brings me so much joy.

I recently had a conversation with a local business owner about the expansion of his business and the possibilities within that. He asked for my opinions on certain things and let me share my thoughts and ideas, that pairs right along with what I am passionate about. It was such a good conversation, knowing that someone older than me, in an important role, cared about my passions and ideas.

This may seem like something small, but it was huge to me. You may have had an experience before when someone saw something special in you and wanted to bring out those qualities.

It baffles me that there are people who want to stop us from pursuing what we are passionate about. The Lord placed passions on each of our hearts for a reason and that reason was not to just ponder on the wonders of it or talk about it with some close friends, but to live it out!

It isn’t by chance that you were granted each of your interests, gifts, and ideas (which by the way are not the same as anyone else’s). We are all gifted uniquely and with that, we are to chase our passions and dreams relentlessly, all the while with one purpose in mind—to glorify His name.

Maybe you want to be a nurse (go for it!!!) but there are so many people who taunt you with the difficulties of nursing school and how you will never make it through. These people may not mean to hurt you, but that is definitely the opposite of encouragement.

There will be long days and nights when you wonder why you are doing this. In these times, think about the precious lives and souls that you will have the opportunity to care for.

Owning your own business is something that you have dreamed of for so long, but it seems like everyone you share your idea with has something negative to say about the industry and how much pointless work is put into maintaining it. But if you are just able to keep your eyes on your purpose and visions, through this you will have such an impact on many lives.

Teaching is a task and there are certain people who were designed to be in this workforce. There are too many accounts to recall the number of times I have heard someone tell an education student reasons to not become a teacher. There is a reason. A passion for children has been placed on your heart, so don’t let others negate that. You are going to help shape the young minds of this world and no amount of money could take place of that.

I don’t know what your goals or passions are, although I would love to hear all about them, but I do know that they weren’t meant to be hidden. So, whether you are passionate about criminal justice, interior design, higher education, accounting, ministry, social work, baking or literally any other good and just thing, use your voice.

I encourage you to not let lies from the enemy convince you your thoughts and dreams aren’t worthy to be known, because YOU are worthy to be known. Don’t lose sight of your purpose. No matter who you are or what your age, your passions are worthy of being pursued.