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About this quote

What does it mean?
It warns against mistaking dreams for reality but argues that surrendering dreams to reality is the true failure.
In plain terms
Don't confuse dreams with reality but never give up on your dreams.
What can you take from it?
Keep dreams alive even when reality is hard.

Where it applies

  • motivational speaking
  • creative pursuits
  • overcoming failure

Putting it to work

  • set long term goals
  • review personal mission

Questions to consider

  • What dream have you almost given up on?
  • How do you protect your dreams?

Another view

Sometimes adjusting dreams to fit reality is necessary for survival.

More from James Michener

  1. The master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labor and his leisure, his mind and his body, his information and h…

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  2. There are no insoluble problems. Only time-consuming ones.

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  3. Scientists dream about doing great things. Engineers do them.

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