Dreams Do Come True:

With Two Easy Steps:

Step 1: Take One Action Toward Your Dream Today.
Step 2: Follow Step 1 Daily.

December 2011, Jun Nishioka traveled to the United States in pursuit of his dream—to fly. He stayed with my family the week prior to Christmas Holiday last year, and then pressed on to Florida to study flight, and earn his pilots’ licenses.

 

 Jun's visit 2011

 

For those who think this was an easy thing to do, you would be mistaken. Imagine traveling halfway across the world to a foreign country, being alone on Christmas away from family and friends, with language as a challenge.

Jun is an inspiration. He pressed forward despite all obstacles. 

 

 Jun with Seattle Grandma

Last week, Jun visited my family again. This time on his way home to Osaka, and holding something special—his pilot license with commercial, instrument and multi-engine ratings. But more than that, he found something else. 

 

“I went to Florida to get my pilot’s license. But I found my confidence.”

He had an air about him. Pride and achievement induced—yes. But there was more. He had found confidence, and he glowed. He is one of the few people in the world who can fly a plane. And he did this by pushing himself, one day at a time. He had the courage to follow his dream instead of just talking about it. 

 

 2012 visit to Museum of Flight

 

His next step is to convert his U.S. Licenses to Japan’s licenses—another daunting challenge. One that will take dedication, that we all know Jun has.

Jun, we are all so very proud of you. I know you will reach all dreams. What is Jun looking forward to now? 

 

“I cannot wait to start my next chapter.”

While in Seattle we visited Snoqualmie Falls, and enjoyed lunch in the Attic at Salish Lodge.  The manager, David, took us on a tour of the hotel and we explored the rooms and the spa. Why did we do this? This is a setting in my next novel, Flight For Safety.

 

 

Jun flew on a buddy pass back to Osaka on Saturday. Unfortunately a Typhoon in Osaka created a four-hour delay in Seattle. But a business class seat...for this first class young man... made the wait worth it. 

 

I am going to have fun watching Jun Fly into his future. There will be many headwinds along the way, but I know at the end of his journey he will have achieved everything he set out for, and more.

 

What will you do today, in pursuit of your dream?

 

Enjoy the Journey!

XO Karlene