It's funny because when you're a child, you believe you can be anything you want to be, go wherever you want to go. There's no limit to what you can dream. You expect the unexpected, you believe in magic, in fairy tales, and in possibilities. Then you grow older and that innocence is shattered and somewhere along the way the reality of life gets in the way and you're hit by the realization that you can't be all you wanted to be, you might have to settle for a little bit less. Why do we stop believing in ourselves? Why do we let facts and figures and anything but dreams rule our lives?
The quote reflects on the transformative journey from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the boundless possibilities children envision for their futures. As children, they are filled with dreams and a sense of wonder, believing that they can achieve anything and that magic exists. This carefree belief allows them to dream big and embrace the unexpected. However, as they mature, this innocence is often lost, replaced by the harsh realities and limitations of adult life.
The author questions why people abandon their self-belief and let practical considerations overshadow their dreams. The shift from imagination to the constraints imposed by reality can be disheartening, leading individuals to settle for less than they aspired to. Ahern prompts readers to reflect on the importance of nurturing their dreams and maintaining a sense of possibility, even in the face of life’s challenges.
