Friends, what challenges are you currently encountering? What are some of the things that have made you truly grateful for life, for all you have, despite all that you don’t have? This past weekend was Easter, and though not everyone celebrates this Christian holiday, for me, it has always represented something new, something to be eternally grateful for in each of our lives.

I recently came across a story published in the New York times and was truly inspired. It was a reminder that anything is possible, to never give up on your dreams, and to never take anything for granted. It has nothing to do specifically with Easter, but it reminded me of spring and the hope and resilience of the human spirit. Ms. Cha’s story is an example for us all.

We generally take for granted the fact that we have a driver’s license or could fairly easily obtain one if we are old enough, can pass a basic test on the rules of the road, and can pass a vision test (that last one knocks me out). This story is about a woman in South Korea who wanted her license so badly that she had to retake the written drivers test 949 times! Not only did she study like crazy and get tutoring, she had to get up at 4. a.m. to take three different buses to get there, and every time she went it cost her $5 she didn’t really have to spare.

She took the test multiple times while investing many years of her life, but eventually she persevered. Clearly her desire, and perhaps a little stubbornness, gave her the strength to overcome the obstacles and fulfill her dream.

My friends, how important are your dreams? How badly do you want them? Aren’t they at least as important as getting your driver’s license? Are you pursuing them with even a fraction of the persistence and determination of Ms. Cha?

You can’t always expect immediate results, because the larger the dream, quite often the more time and effort it will require to achieve. Most dreams are worth the investment, and as they say, it doesn’t matter what path you take to get there, once you get to the top of the mountain, the view is the same. You are worth it, and so are your dreams. Be strong and don’t give up, for the best is yet to come!