Our dreams are often shaped by the culture and those around us. But are they God-given dreams? A strong support system—friends, mentors, and family who share the same values—can make all the difference. They help us decide if the dream is worth pursuing, support us when life hits us hard, encourage us when we feel stuck, celebrate our victories, and challenge us to grow in ways we never imagined. Reflecting on my journey, I see how God placed the right people in my life at just the right times, helping me achieve dreams I once thought were impossible.
The Right People at the Right Time:
Making the Connection
Years ago, I aspired to pursue a master’s degree in England. I was accepted into several schools and made all the necessary preparations. Still, financial constraints forced me to defer my acceptance for a year in hopes of raising funds.
That year, a colleague from work introduced me to Mr. Johnny Gayle, who knew my father. Mr. Gayle connected me with his daughter, Debbie, who lived in London. When I finally arrived in England, Debbie offered me a job at her agency, Care Professionals. While pursuing my master’s degree was my dream, I realized working as a care professional was God’s plan for me in that season. Through that experience, I learned the value of compassion, realizing that many elderly people needed someone to talk to. This shaped me in ways I never expected.
My mother, who also lives in England, welcomed me with open arms and supported my endeavors, even when she did not fully understand them.
Before my trip, my longtime friend Shanika gifted me warm clothes for the journey.
Always the professional! Sanchia at a poster presentation in London, England with classmates.
Many people played an essential part in this and other dreams. Every dream I have pursued has required unexpected support. I often attempted to go it alone, but God had other plans—and I am grateful for that. We need others for support, guidance, or to walk alongside us. We also need to recognize when we are the ones to give the support when needed.
Despite the distance, Debbie and I have maintained our friendship for almost 20 years, and Shanika remains a part of my life. When I started this blog, the first article was sent to Debbie for review! Also, whenever Debbie needs someone to review her papers for school or otherwise, she sends them to me. Some people enter our lives for reasons beyond what we originally intended.
Are we paying attention?
Who Is Our True Family?
We often associate family with those we are born into, but that is not always the case. Sometimes, our relatives may not accept God’s plan for us, mainly because we view life from our experiences and understanding. This is why it is good to travel and learn about other cultures outside our own. It helps us open our minds.
So, who constitutes our real family?
The world defines family in various ways. By blood, it may mean sharing a common ancestor. Social media broadens this definition, showing that family can be anyone who shares our values and supports us—regardless of blood relation.
Scripture, however, reveals a deeper understanding of family. In Mark 3:35, it states: “Whoever does the will of God is my brother, my sister, and my mother.” Spiritual kinship—aligning with God’s values and purpose—defines our true brothers and sisters.
My sister Janine succinctly puts it: “Family isn’t just blood. It’s those who share our beliefs and values, who stand by us through thick and thin, and who love us unconditionally. They are our safety net.”
As with our relationship with God, true family allows us the freedom to be ourselves.
Are they for or against us?
Family whether biological or not is important, they may not always fully understand or support our journey, but we can still honor and appreciate them. However, setting and communicating boundaries is essential. When those boundaries are repeatedly violated, we may need to love them from a distance. The distance is not permanent, we can know the season we are in when we are aware!
During this time, self-love is essential. Is it well with our souls?
That said, this is not about feeding our ego. True family, whether by blood or choice, should be able to correct us with honesty and love—without bias, selfish intent, or preconceived motives.
All situations are for us when we have the right perspective.
Can We Find Strength in Sisterhood?
In the book, I discussed the importance of having the right people, in the right place, at the right time to accomplish our dreams. I have prayed for the right people and we believe it is the right time to pursue the dream.
This dream requires a network of women who believe in and support each other. Together, we can push past fear, take risks, and confidently pursue our dreams.
If you are a woman who supports the building of families who share our core values and seek a supportive community, we invite you to join us. Let us create a circle that fuels our dreams and amplifies our voices while we build!
Tell Us:
• How have women supported your journey toward your dreams or personal growth?
• Do you currently have a dream you want to accomplish? Do you need support to achieve it?
Love,
Sanchia and team.
This article was edited by Debbie Gayle
Born and raised in Jamaica, Debbie Gayle moved to the U.K. at 16 after completing high school. She pursued higher education in both the U.K. and the U.S., earning two master’s degrees—one in International Business and the other in Therapeutic Fostering and Adoption.
With a career spanning both business and care, Debbie has successfully led care businesses while specializing in therapeutic support for children recovering from extreme trauma. She is also a passionate advocate for children with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the resources and support they deserve.
A mother of two adult sons, Debbie balances her professional and family life while considering a future doctorate in business or social care. In her free time, she cherishes moments of reflection, appreciating the impact she continues to make.