FARMINGTON — Students in an adult education college transition program attended a workshop this week that focused on daring to dream and encouraged attendees to design and create a life, not just make a living.

Workshop facilitator John Neal first shared how the threat of losing his job at Otis Specialty Papers in 2009 led him to participate in the second ever college transition class. He had heard about the class from another worker enrolled in the first class.

Neal began the course in late 2008, attended his last class on June 4, 2009 and his last day working at Otis was the following day. “This program made a very smooth transition to go to college,” he said. Neal obtained an Associate Degree and later went for a Bachelor of Science in education.

Neal warned the current students that it was a long and winding road for him and it would be for them too. He said, “Design your life rather than haphazardly falling in to it.”

Fear often holds us back from taking steps to a better life, Neal said. One’s perspective can also have an impact on how the world is viewed. He said, looking at past events in a new way can become the driving force for change.

Neal spoke of his own drinking and how his life has changed since he stopped. Several students also shared the stories that brought them to participate in the college transition class. Abuse, drugs, time spent in jail, and the death of a parent were some factors.

The telling of some stories often meant the shedding of tears, but was also inspirational and empowering. Those students are committed to moving beyond their struggles to be role models for family members or engage in careers where they can mentor those dealing with similar circumstances.

Dreams are a person’s most renewable resource. Belief systems that have been programmed in to a person may stop a person from reaching for their dreams. Neal also said that fear can block one’s ability to dream about the future in a positive way.

Neal encouraged everyone to set goals to make their dreams a reality.  He suggested writing down goals, identifying those to be completed in 1 , 2, 3, or more years, and then prioritizing the most important to work towards first. Economic goals, material items, and personal development are things to consider.

Once the list is made, it shouldn’t be forgotten but become an ongoing list. “Look at it every few months to see if things have changed,” Neal said. It’s less about recovery and more about discovering who you really are. “Stay at it for as long as it takes,” Neal urged.

Instead of saying, “Why should I follow my dreams?”, ask instead, “Why not?”

Neal stressed following one’s heart instead of the brain. “It’s your life to make,” he said. 

pharnden@sunmediagroup.net