Can we actually manifest our hopes and dreams?

Life is forever challenging and we're often left pondering why? Why are we not getting what we want? Why do so many things go wrong? We debate this theme and we seem to fall into one of two camps - the spiritual "it's all meant to be and good things are on the way" or the atheist'ish view where life just happens, it's all random and that spirituality is a crutch for the weak;) (Ouch for those of us who are deeply spiritual and clear on our views!... but differences are inevitable and we probably need to avoid taking this personally). There is much debate about the value of spiritual speak. All over Facebook people post comforting and inspiring blurbs about thinking positive, having faith, see it and it is so etc... and all over Facebook the non-believers bristle and think it's all a bunch of rubbish. Obviously, we're touching on very personal values and beliefs-  and like politics, there is no right or wrong way of thinking-  just potential avenues for coping with the drama and unknowns of life. So, can we manifest our hopes and dreams or what? Can we manifest our hopes and dreams whether we're spiritual, atheist, or somewhere in between?

Spiritual or not, a lot of very successful/happy people talk about the importance of having goals, writing them down, creating intentions and taking whatever steps we can in order to move in the right direction. Beyond that, many believe that we have to determine whether we actually believe that achieving our hopes and dreams is possible. If however, our desires and beliefs are not in line, then we will likely remain in a holding pattern, all the while feeling frustrated and perplexed at why the many success instructions are not working. Problem is, we can clearly see the obstacles to change (lack of funds and/or education or skills, age, obligations, responsibilities etc.) ... but it's not as easy to envision how a transformation could unfold. The unknown may be our biggest barrier. Apparently, if we detach from our present circumstances and focus only on what we want... if we ignore the how it could possibly happen concerns and leave it up to the stars, luck, chance, what have you.... that miracle may just happen. Just the thought of that feels good, doesn't it :) Hugs. (For more info check out Ask and it is Given by Esther Hicks).

Blessings,

Chatgirl