What is vision? Vision is defined as an experience in which something appears vividly or credibly to the mind, although not actually present, often under the influence of divine agency. I believe that vision is a gift and those with vision have a responsibility to make sure that vision is fulfilled.

So many times we can get so reliant and expect so much from others. This is not necessarily a bad thing because we all need one another. But sometimes being so reliant on others can be a hindrance because no one is obligated to fulfill your vision but you. Nobody is obligated to help with ideas, planning or the execution of your vision. The reason this is so important to understand is because we can become lazy and depend on others to do things for us and the vision can slowly but surely be put on the back burner. And the back burner isn't an option with vision. Time has to be maximized.

With vision comes great responsibility and accountability. You have to be willing to sacrifice and do whatever is necessary for the vision to be fulfilled. There's a certain level of maturity necessary to the development of your ideas and dreams. You can't be so consumed in who's supporting or who's not supporting because at the end of the day, it's your vision and it's your responsibility to get it out. God will do the rest. What I've learned is that the first step is always the most challenging step but when we take the first step, God has usually already made way for the rest to be handled. I'm reminded of an old song my grandmother used to sing that says, "Every time I take one step, God takes two." I believe that song to be a song of truth because when He gives you vision, I believe that's His way of saying if you do what I tell you to do I will make sure the rest is taken care of. When you're actually putting in the work along with applying faith, God will make sure you meet the right people and have all the connections you need to do what he wants you to do.

We have to learn to take ownership of what is given to us. We have to be protective of it as well. Everyone doesn't need to know your vision because the truth is that everyone isn't going to mean well concerning your vision. It's your duty to take ownership, protect, and nurture your vision. You have to be cautious because it's almost as if you're carrying a baby and that baby has the potential to literally change lives and impact so many people.

At the end of the day there's a cost that comes with vision. You have to be willing to lay it all on the line to make sure the vision is fulfilled. There are going to be times when you feel like you can't do it and the pressure becomes too much but you have to think about the promises of God.  I don’t believe God would give any of us vision if He felt like we weren't able to carry it out and do what He's planned for us to do. Understand that vision takes a lot of effort and work and it doesn't come easy. You have to be willing to go above and beyond. One thing I've learned is that vision stretches you. It makes you uncomfortable and it pushes you to places you never thought you could ever go because vision is so potent. Don’t be discouraged! You have to push and actually commit to the work of vision! It's a gift but it's also a responsibility. You have what it takes to bring the vision to fruition.