Dreams and Passions: A Reflection on Growth, Faith, and Legacy

Lately, I’ve been thinking about dreams and how they evolve over time. What I’ve realized is that while dreams may change, my passions remain constant. They are the heartbeat of my life—the force that influences my dreams, shapes my decisions, and fuels my purpose.

I’m passionate about the roles I play and the people in my life. I’m passionate about my love for the written word and the arts. I’m passionate about real estate and my deep appreciation for development and growth. These passions are what drive me—they are the steady fire behind every goal I set, every dream I pursue.

For example, one of my dreams is to be a great mom. This dream is alive and thriving in my day-to-day life as I learn and evolve in my role as a mother. As a wife, my dream is to be the best partner and woman I can be for my husband. It’s a journey of growth and commitment.

As someone who cares about others and values connection, my dream is to give back and make an impact. This is an ongoing process, and I’ve found my strongest voice for this through the creative arts—whether it’s writing poetry, directing stage plays, or even film and dance. Growing up, I was immersed in cultural arts—learning African dance, performing with step teams, and using these creative expressions as tools to connect, teach, and inspire.

Through all these roles and dreams, I’ve learned that the key is allowing my experiences to inform my voice. When we do that, we open ourselves up to inspire the world. Dreams, when lived out authentically, bring us fulfillment and happiness.

Faith: The Foundation of Fearlessness

A major part of my journey is my faith. As a follower of Ifá, I’ve found strength, courage, and clarity in my spiritual foundation. Faith has made me fearless. It’s taught me to believe in the power of healing and the possibilities that lie ahead—not just for myself, but for those I love.

Faith urges us to live boldly, step out on faith, and trust in a higher purpose. It’s the ultimate encouragement, strengthening our hearts and guiding us toward daring to dream bigger.

Why I Write

Writing has always been my way of connecting with the world. It’s my passion, my outlet, and my tool for making a difference. This is why I started blogging again. I hope that sharing my journey and reflections can resonate with others and maybe even be helpful to someone who reads my words.

“Each one teach one”—this mantra fuels my desire to inspire and uplift. Writing lights the fire under me to continue fulfilling my dreams as a creator and artist. Because to me, living out my passion for creation is the ultimate dream.

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

I chose to write this today because it’s a day of reflection—a day to honor the words and power of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His vision for a better tomorrow resonates deeply with me.

Dr. King’s mission to engage communities and inspire action encourages me to strive for the same in my own way. Whether through the roles I play in my family, my creative endeavors, or my contributions to the community, my deepest goal is to leave an impact and carry forward his legacy of love, connection, and justice.

Living the Dream

Dreams aren’t just lofty ideas. They’re lived out in the small, everyday moments when we align our passions with purpose. My passions—my love for family, creativity, faith, and connection—are what guide me toward my dreams. And each step I take in living out those dreams brings me closer to fulfillment.

So today, I reflect. I celebrate the power of dreaming, the strength of passion, and the resilience of faith. And I challenge myself—and anyone reading this—to keep stepping boldly into the dreams that matter most.

Because that’s how we change the world—one dream, one passion, one moment at a time.

Naima Yetunde Hammonds

Naima Yetunde Hammonds

NYI, active in theater for over 10 years. One of the most exciting highlights of her career was working alongside Mr. Melvin Van Peebles on the adaptation of Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song-directed by Melvin Van Peebles. NYI, tripled as a production assistant, stage manager and actress and traveled with the company to Paris, France in the winter of 2010. Ince says, my goal is to reach my community and beyond. Sky's the limit.

Bachelors of Arts in Drama Studies from SUNY Purchase College
Masters of Professional Studies in Arts and Cultural Management from Pratt Institute

https://nhscribes.com
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