Birthday Dreaming
June 22, 2026 by Veronica Jorge in category Write From the Heart by Veronica Jorge tagged as birthday, dreaming, George Washington, Harriet Tubman, Veronica Jorge
Every once in a while I daydream about what it would be like to meet some famous individual from the past. And if I did meet them, what would I say? Once we’d get past the introductions, nice to meet you; how’s the weather? and other such polite niceties, what would I ask them or talk about? Maybe I’d freeze, and my mind would go blank transforming me into a banal idiot.
Well, I got to find out when my daydream recently turned into reality. No, I’m not crazy. I’m serious. Seriously crazy, you might mutter under your breath. But look, I have the pictures to prove it. Now listen. This is how it came about.
The other day I was minding my own business when I chanced upon an event at the library. Ah, books. (Audible dreamy sigh). They were celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary. That is the library was celebrating, not the books.
Or so I thought.
Because while strolling through the history section, books opened of their own accord and characters greeted me. One even invited me for a stroll and before I knew it I was whisked into the leaf of a page with…
You’ll never guess who it was.
Wait for it.
Drum roll please.
President George Washington!
I could feel the weight of his authority, but also his humility. I didn’t have to fumble for what to say because he did most of the talking. Mostly he asked me about my dreams and hopes for my century and then he took my hand and said, “Leadership is not only having a vision, but also having the courage, the discipline, and the resources to get your there.”
Before I could say or ask anything, I found myself back in the 900 section of the library aisle face to face with Aramita Ross, whom we all know as:
Harriet Tubman!
Her presence was so powerful, but I warmed up to her right away. I asked her how she had found the strength to risk her own life to help so many people. In a steady, kind voice, she said, “I prayed to God to make me strong and able to fight, and that’s what I’ve prayed for ever since.” I hugged her and leaned into her strength. And then she was gone.
I looked around. All was silent. The books sat quietly on their shelves. I went home reflecting on the words of President Washington and Harriet Tubman, wondering within myself if I could ever be brave, strong, courageous, and dedicated like them. I smiled and wiped a tear as I thought of the last words Harriet spoke over me as I held her close. The words of her deep resonant voice will forever ring in my heart.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
That would be the best birthday present I could give them and they would, I’m sure, somehow know that their sufferings and struggles have not been in vain.
Veronica Jorge
See you next time on July 22nd!
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