Collaboration Made a Dream a Reality
Yesterday, I released my first-ever documentary. It tells the story of how I trained for and completed my first marathon after undergoing back surgery in 2018.
While my car accident story has been shared in many ways, this documentary has been the most intentional way.
What I've come to realize is that my story isn't just about me. It took the efforts of many individuals to make it happen—people who shared their gifts, talents, and encouragement.
Running a marathon started as a dream, and collaboration brought it to reality.
In today's blog, I want to express my gratitude to my support system and discuss the invaluable gift of collaboration.
I did run in a marathon so this quote rings true, “If you want to run fast, go alone, if you want to run far, run together.”
In my training process, I made it through my longest runs when I had people by my side. I finished the marathon because the person by my side was cheering me on.
The quicker you are willing to collaborate, the faster you will see the results of multiplication.
When pursuing a dream or an idea, it requires more than just your efforts. At the root of collaboration is:
Choice: It begins with the decision to work alongside others, acknowledging that your vision can be expanded through a collective effort.
Trust: Collaboration is about mutual trust and believing in each other's abilities, and respecting diverse perspectives. It’s necessary to foster an environment of safety in creativity.
As Chuck Swindoll puts it: "Nobody is a whole chain... We need each other."
The next thing you are meant to do in life might require other people.
Acknowledgements
This documentary is dedicated to my friends and family, from Brooklyn to Miami and beyond. To Mariana, we went through this tough season together — cherish our bond.
Special thanks to Carisa for sharing a dream that transformed my life, to my parents for their sacrifices, and to my brothers for their support. Emmanuel, you're a real one.
I extend my thanks to all who contributed in making this documentary possible:
Gina Dohmen
Jheanelle
Vic
Anika
Bijan
Greg
Alex
Priscilla
Stephania
Davide + Gina
Roommates
"The Reverends"
To each and every person who accompanied me on this journey, whether named or unnamed, your support has made all the difference. My gratitude knows no bounds.
