Some wise, and then some humble thoughts

"Do not let the hero in your soul perish in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won, it exists, it is real, it is possible, it's yours."        -Ayn Rand

"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark."
What incredible guidance. I think sometimes we try and sacrifice those things we want because of our love for others. Sometimes this can be noble, right and mature-but sometimes it is cowardly. Sometimes it is a silly, misguided, ignorant thing to do. We do the people we love no favor by not attempting to magnify and stretch ourselves. Sooner or later (probably sooner) we will have to find time to face the situation we have created for ourselves.
Passions are a wonderful thing; a guiding light. They add color and depth to our lives. May we always be able to feel them, and often have the opportunity and luxury to embrace and exploit them.