These were all well-meaning professionals who believed that they knew what was best for me. But my life would be much different, and I probably wouldn't be with you today, if I had stayed within the boundaries of their expectations. We are all unique. Each one of us has special gifts to add to the tapestry we call community. But I have been among those rehabilitation counselors and administrators who have shortchanged client dreams in the name of risk management.
Dreams are important.
They reflect deeply held values. Even if the dreams seem far beyond reach, they deserve to be explored. And with a little work, they can show the path to a person's giftedness, and how they can make a difference in the world. But too often, people in our business are afraid to risk client failures. We want to shelter them from defeat.