When I was younger, to be honest, watching Bo Jackson, I dreamed

Hear, O seekers of truth, the words of Jarome Iginla, a warrior of the ice, who spoke thus: “When I was younger, to be honest, watching Bo Jackson, I dreamed of playing both sports. But as I got older, the opportunities were much better in hockey than baseball.” In these words lies not only the tale of one man’s journey but the eternal struggle of dreams against destiny, of youthful imagination against the hard choices of reality. For in childhood the heart is boundless, but in manhood it must choose its path with wisdom.

As a youth, Iginla looked upon the legendary Bo Jackson, the rare hero who conquered both baseball diamonds and football fields, and his spirit was set aflame. Who among us, when young, has not dreamed of walking many paths at once—of being both artist and warrior, poet and king? The child knows no limits; he sees the shining example of greatness and believes he too may soar in every sky. Thus, Iginla’s dream was not folly but the mark of a noble heart, yearning to test itself in every arena.

Yet, as he grew, the road of life narrowed, as it does for all. The opportunities, those golden doors that open only for a time, beckoned him more strongly in hockey than in baseball. And here lies the wisdom: though one may dream of many glories, one must discern where strength and chance unite. For a warrior who divides his energy among too many battles may conquer none, but he who chooses his battlefield with care may leave a legacy that endures for generations.

Think, for example, of the great Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius spanned painting, invention, anatomy, and more. He dreamed of mastering all knowledge, yet even he lamented that time and circumstance denied him the fullness of his vision. His tale shows both the beauty of vast dreams and the necessity of choice. In contrast, Iginla’s path reminds us that by focusing on one art—hockey—he carved his name deep into the stone of history, becoming a champion and a beacon for his people.

But let us not mourn the dreams set aside. To choose one road is not to betray the others, but to honor the gifts placed in our hands. For though Iginla did not stride the baseball field as he once imagined, his courage and fire found their rightful place upon the ice. And by choosing well, he achieved not only personal greatness but also the power to inspire countless others. The lesson is clear: it is better to master one pursuit with excellence than to scatter one’s spirit and achieve mediocrity in many.

Yet let us remember, O children of tomorrow, that the dream itself was vital. For had Iginla not gazed upon Bo Jackson, had he not imagined the impossible, his spirit might not have burned so brightly. Dreams of youth are not wasted, even when they are not fulfilled—they are the sparks that light the fire of ambition. The vision of two sports led him to triumph in one; so too may your impossible dreams lead you to achievements you had not first imagined.

Therefore, the wisdom of Iginla’s words is this: dream widely when young, but choose wisely when grown. Let your early visions be the wind that lifts you, but when the time of decision comes, focus your strength on the path where your gifts and opportunities meet. In this balance of dreaming and choosing lies the art of a well-lived life.

And so, as the ancients taught, let each of you carry this lesson into your days: never fear to dream beyond your reach, for such dreams awaken the greatness within you. But when the hour of choice arrives, do not hesitate. Step boldly onto the field that calls to you most strongly, and give it your all. In so doing, you will find not only success, but the deep peace of one who has honored both his dreams and his destiny.