Dream Big Review

In the month of April, Bob Goff posted a photo on his Instagram account urging individuals to apply to become a member of the launch team for his new book, Dream Big. In the midst of a social-distanced, abnormal life I realized I had nothing to lose.

Shortly into the month of May, I had gotten an email welcoming me to Bob Goff’s Dream Big launch team! I was praised and congratulated by friends and family. I told each person that complimented me that it sounded much cooler than it is. However I remained full of excitement and joy that I was able to read the book before it was released!

What is a launch team?

A launch team is typically full of an author's supporters. A group of helpers that will uplift and support the author’s new work! In this case, I was given an early copy of the book and it was my responsibility to leave reviews on websites once I had finished reading. The launch team kept in contact in a Facebook group. People from up and down, far and wide took part in the team. We received graphics, tasks and even got to participate in a Facebook live session with Bob!

Dream Big takeaway

“Who are you? Where are you? What do you want?”

These three questions provided the structure for the read. It was a perfect combination of Bob’s life stories, faith and “self-discovery”.

What I loved & why

Bob Goff is known for his loving nature. He seems to be a true embodiment of 1 Corinthians 16:14 (“Let all that you do be done in love”).

One of my favorite points made in the book is that hate is the opposite of love- not the enemy. Goff goes on to explain that fear is what stops us from love. If hate and love are on opposite ends of the spectrum, and fear is what prevents us from love, the only option when preventing hate would be strength.

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“Have you noticed that people who seem to accomplish the most always seem to have time for almost anything?"

Have you noticed this? It is something that I have yet to let go since reading.

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GARTH BROOKS reference! I love Garth Brooks. The reference here just mentions that Brooks never gave up, so neither should you!

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“I think I would make a lousy evangelist. Here’s why: I don’t want to be an advertisement for Jesus; I’d rather be proof.”

This quote changes things. Yes we need to share and spread the power of the word, but I would much rather focus on things above and let the pieces fall into place. I want to be the person that strives to love my neighbors, not lecture them.

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Bottom line: I love Bob Goff’s writing and I was thrilled to be a member of his launch team.

Here it is:

https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Big-Youre-Going-About/dp/1400219493/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=dream+big&qid=1593722759&sr=8-3

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48856840-dream-big

#DREAMBIGBOOK

Freshmen Follies at Oklahoma State

Freshman Follies is a unique event that has been around at Oklahoma State University since 1970.

Each sorority pairs with a fraternity to form a cast of 30 freshmen that compete with their own 10 minute shows based on singing, dancing and "cheesing".

The show takes place each fall. Follies however, is easier said than done.

The pairing process begins with the cast directors (approximately four or five members from each sorority/fraternity), meeting in almost a speed dating setting. The pairing is a mutual process that is set in stone usually within the following day. This takes place in the spring semester prior to the school year of that year's follies show.

Once paired, the directors are able to begin brainstorming and creating. At the start of the fall semester, follies tryouts are held within each chapter. Fifteen girls and 15 boys make up the pairings' cast.

One song and dance is written, choreographed and taught to the "folliers". With these two things, the cast must audition on the Student Union Little Theatre for a panel of judges. Typically, only eight out of 13 casts make "the show".

This meaning those who advance, get a story line, characters and a whole show to perform from their directors. Those who do not are now done with Freshmen Follies. Making the show is an honor, and an experience filled with memories.

My personal favorite aspect of Follies is that in the grand scheme of things, it is a philanthropic event. Hearts for Hearing is benefitted through the ticket sales of seats in the union theatre during show week. This past year (2018) over $40,000 was donated to Hearts for Hearing from Freshman Follies.

The little theatre is always packed with parents, members of sororities/fraternities and other students at OSU. The people come to see each individual show that makes up the entire Freshman Follies production.

Each show consists of singing, dancing and "cheesing" (jumping around with flailing arms and intense emotion, yes I know how weird that sounds!) as a group- all with a main theme/plot that is portrayed. Costumes are worn to fit the theme and extreme makeup is worn. Any normal song can be used in the show- the kick however is that all lyrics are changed to fit the theme and plot of the show.

Theme, costumes, vocals and choreography are all decided and carried out through the cast directors, as mentioned earlier. Unlike members of their chapters, "folliers" and directors do not participate in "pomping" with their chapter for homecoming decks.

Up to 20 hours a week can be spent on preparing for Freshmen Follies. With this in mind, the casts create relationships that are capable of lasting their college careers- or even longer.

I met my first friends in college through Freshman Follies, many of which are my best friends.

In conclusion, Freshman Follies is a wonderful tradition that is unlike anything else. I hope to see friendships made and money raised for years to come.