Ain’t Nothing Wrong with Having a Dream

Reflections

This short poem about dreams and goals opens with a bold, confident statement: Ain’t nothing wrong with having a dream. The poet begins unapologetically. He describes grand ambitions — A penthouse apartment, modern and lush / The spotlight on you — a thousand fans gush. These images reflect dreams of youth: visibility, success, wealth, admiration.

In the second stanza, the poet broadens the definition of what a dream can be. It may be more intimate and domestic: A home and family, a fireplace in cold weather. It may even be more basic and personal — Love and forgiveness — a dream of great worth. Not all dreams are about fame or wealth. Stability, connection, and inner peace are dreams as well.

A shift in perspective

In the final stanza, the poem turns inward. The dream is no longer about achievement, but endurance. If by life you’ve been broken — instead / Make it your dream to arise out of bed. Here, the poet reframes ambition. Sometimes the highest goal is resilience — getting up and facing another day is itself an act of courage.

The message is clear: there is wisdom in keeping a beautiful dream before your eyes. Whether large or small, visible or unseen, dreams give direction to our lives. No matter our circumstances, they help us move forward.

More about goals and dreams

If this reflection speaks to you, you may also enjoy Goals and Dreams — another short poem about holding onto your purpose when times get tough.