The Gift of Imagination

Imagination is one of the most precious gifts we carry with us through life. As children, it flows freely. A cardboard box becomes a rocket ship. A blanket turns into a royal cape. Entire worlds unfold from the corners of our minds. Somewhere along the way, many of us begin to believe imagination is something to “outgrow,” but the truth is that imagination is just as powerful, if not more, in adulthood.

When I was a little girl, my friends knew me as the one who would talk to trees, teddy bears, and stuffed animals. I knew they weren’t alive, but in my imagination, I felt they could understand me. Looking back, I realize that my “crazy wild imagination,” as some called it, wasn’t strange at all. It was simply the beginning of learning how to see the world in a more colorful and meaningful way.

Imagination allows us to see beyond what is right in front of us. It is the bridge between what is and what could be. Every invention, every song, every story, every performance begins first in the imagination. Before the artist picks up a brush or the actor steps onto a stage, they first envision what is possible.

But imagination isn’t just for art. It is also the key to hope. When life feels overwhelming, imagination allows us to picture a brighter tomorrow. When challenges seem too big, imagination whispers that new solutions are waiting to be discovered. It is our way of creating possibility where none seemed to exist.

For that reason, I’ve become very intentional about what I allow into my imagination. Personally, I don’t watch scary or overly dark movies. Whenever I do, I find those images show up in my dreams, and I carry them with me long after the credits roll. Instead, I try to fill my mind with things that uplift and inspire. I’ll choose happy films, Disney classics, or adventures that spark wonder rather than fear. It’s not about ignoring reality, but about protecting the space where creativity and dreams take root. Fear has no place in my imagination, because I believe imagination should be a source of courage, not dread.

The beautiful thing is that imagination is not reserved for a select few. It belongs to all of us. Whether you daydream about new adventures, brainstorm ideas at work, or visualize your next goal, you are tapping into the creative power of imagination.

So maybe the real question is not whether we are imaginative, but how we choose to use that imagination. Will we use it to dwell on fears, or will we use it to dream of better things?

Imagination is a gift. It fuels creativity, nurtures resilience, and keeps us moving forward. When we embrace it, we remind ourselves that no matter how tough life gets, the story is still being written, and we have the ability to envision new chapters filled with hope.