Live Your Vision!
It’s so easy to go through life – reacting to whatever is put in front of you. Getting through the paces – day after day – bouncing along, following the path of least resistance. But there is actually another way to approach life – a far better way. And it’s captured best in the simple phrase: See It – and – Be It!
This is the idea that we can take control of our destiny – by creating a clear vision of what we’d like to achieve. In other words, we need to ‘see’ or visualize the person we would like to become, the goals we would like to achieve, and the life we would like to experience. And it is most powerful, if we can begin to view these future states in the sharpest and greatest detail. Almost feel as though we are truly experiencing these outcomes in the present moment. This is the ‘seeing it’ part of the concept.
Next comes the ‘being it’ part. In other words, once having ‘seen it,’ our next job is to let our thoughts and actions flow in the direction of ‘being it.’ Taking the initiative, having the drive, the focus and the follow up – to make sure that we ‘live the dream’ - that we bring life to the vision. When we do this, with confidence and boldness, we actually have the ability to successfully create a beautiful future.
When we engage in this process of visualization, we ignite a powerful force within ourselves. This force acts as a catalyst, propelling us toward our goals with unwavering determination. By vividly imagining our desired outcomes, we establish a mental blueprint that guides our decisions and actions. The more specific and detailed our vision, the clearer the path becomes. As we repeatedly immerse ourselves in this imagined reality, we build not only confidence but also a profound belief in the possibility of our dreams. With each visualization session, we are reinforcing our commitment to making these dreams a reality, establishing a strong foundation on which to take action.
Moreover, the act of 'seeing it' does more than shape our personal ambitions; it influences how we interact with the world around us. Our mindset transforms as we embrace this forward-thinking approach, allowing us to attract opportunities and resources aligned with our vision. People around us begin to notice the shift in our energy, prompting them to engage with us in ways that support our goals. When we project a clear vision, we magnetize the right circumstances and connections, creating an environment conducive to success. The universe, as they say, has a way of responding to our intentions, and our detailed vision becomes a powerful beacon.
In essence, the journey from 'seeing it' to 'being it' is one of alignment and authenticity. It requires us to stay true to our vision, adapting our plans as necessary while remaining steadfast in our commitment. This dynamic interplay of visualization and action not only fosters personal growth but also instills resilience in the face of obstacles. As challenges arise, we can return to the vivid images of our desired outcomes, using them as motivation to persevere. Ultimately, by embracing the transformative power of visualization, we cultivate a life that is not merely dreamed of but fully lived, reinforcing the idea that we truly can create our reality if we dare to see it first. So, I urge you to please
go for it! Truly ‘see it,’ and then – confidently go ‘be it!’
The Power of Vision in Manchester, NH
Contributed by Brian Hettrick of the American Sunshine Movement - Brian lives and works in downtown Manchester.
The story of Manchester, NH, is truly a story of ‘seeing it, and being it.’ Manchester has long been a city shaped by visionaries who saw beyond the present to build a thriving future. In the 19th century, the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company didn’t just construct mills along the Merrimack River; they developed an entire ecosystem to support industry, workers, and community life. Their master plan included worker housing, schools, roads, and public buildings, making Manchester one of the most well-planned industrial cities in America. The impact of their vision remains today, as the city's historic brick mills continue to define its skyline and house businesses that drive modern innovation.
That same spirit of foresight is alive today as new visionaries shape Manchester’s next chapter. Downtown is undergoing a major transformation, with developers recognizing the potential for an urban renaissance. Hundreds of new housing units are rising, offering modern living spaces that attract professionals, families, and creatives eager to be part of a revitalized city center. This surge in residential development is reinvigorating the downtown economy, drawing in restaurants, retail, and entertainment venues that make Manchester a more vibrant place to live and work.
At the heart of this transformation is the belief that if you can see it, you can be it. The Chandler House, an elegant but aging historic property, could have been lost to time—but instead, it is being reimagined as an artistic hub for the city. Purchased by visionaries who understand the role of arts and culture in urban revitalization, the Chandler House is set to become a dynamic space for artists, makers, and creatives to gather, showcase their work, and inspire the community. Just as the Amoskeag Corporation once envisioned a city built around industry, today’s leaders are shaping a city enriched by creativity and innovation.
Manchester’s history proves that transformation begins with vision. The city’s leaders, past and present, have shown that by visualizing what is possible, they can shape reality. From the meticulously planned mill yards of the 19th century to the modern apartments and creative spaces redefining downtown, the city thrives when people dare to dream big.
As Manchester continues to evolve, the lesson is clear: see it and be it. Whether it’s revitalizing historic buildings, creating new spaces for living and working, or fostering a thriving arts scene, the power of visualization is undeniable. As someone who lives and works downtown, I see this transformation firsthand every day—and I couldn’t be enjoying it more. Watching Manchester’s future unfold in real-time is an exciting and inspiring experience, proving that great cities are built by those who believe in what’s possible.
Crafting a Legacy: Flags of Valor and the Art of Believing in a Mission!
The story of Flags of Valor, founded by Special Ops veteran, Brian Steorts, is truly a testament to the concept of ‘seeing it, and being it.’ The company is the embodiment of a marvelous vision – inspired by Brian’s patriotic spirit – brought to fruition by his steadfast belief in the mission and his bold and continuous pursuit of its realization.
Flags of Valor, a Virginia-based company, is dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders by employing American craftsmen—many of whom are veterans themselves—to create handcrafted wooden flags, military coin holders, and importantly, a product for kids – flag building kits that are accompanied by a booklet that teaches about America, our history, our freedoms and more. The company’s mission is ‘to honor our veterans and pass freedom on to the next generation.
In fact, the mission extends beyond business; Flags of Valor actively invests in charitable causes that support military families, education, and employment opportunities for those who have served. By embodying the See It, Be It philosophy, Flags of Valor not only provides meaningful careers for veterans but also inspires others to take action in their communities.
One of their key collaborations is with DeWalt Tools, a company renowned for its high-quality power tools and commitment to American manufacturing. Together, Flags of Valor and DeWalt have launched initiatives that provide direct support to veterans, combining their expertise in craftsmanship and tool manufacturing to enhance employment opportunities and community engagement. This partnership is more than just a corporate alliance—it’s a powerful statement on the value of skilled labor, patriotism, and giving back to those who have sacrificed for the country.
Flags of Valor and DeWalt have also teamed up with Joe Gibbs Racing, with their brands featured on one of its race cars. Joe Gibbs Racing, a dominant force in NASCAR, has long been committed to supporting veterans' causes. The team actively promotes initiatives that provide assistance and recognition to veterans, whether through sponsorships, charity events, or direct financial support to military-focused organizations. Their partnership with Flags of Valor and DeWalt showcases a shared dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served.
Recently, Joe Gibbs Racing driver Christopher Bell secured a major victory at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), marking his third consecutive win of the season. Bell’s performance has been nothing short of exceptional, solidifying his place as a top contender in this year’s NASCAR Cup Series. His winning streak highlights the strength and competitiveness of Joe Gibbs Racing, as well as the teamwork and excellence that align with the values of Flags of Valor and DeWalt.
The History and Power of Vision Boards
Contributed by Jon Morton of the American Sunshine Movement
The concept of vision boards—using visual representation to set and achieve goals—has likely been in practice for thousands of years, perhaps even dating back to prehistoric times. Early cave drawings may have served as a form of visualization, where hunters depicted successful hunts, possibly to manifest their hopes of securing food. This idea of expressing desires through imagery has evolved throughout history and across cultures.
Some historians believe that vision boards have roots in ancient Egypt, where people inscribed hieroglyphics on papyrus scrolls to document their aspirations and communicate their dreams. These depictions served to bring their desires into reality, much like modern vision boards do today. Even in religious texts, we see the power of written and visualized goals. The Bible, in the book of Habakkuk (written around 2,600 years ago), presents a strikingly similar concept. In Habakkuk 2:2, it states:
"And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it."
This passage underscores the importance of recording a vision with clarity so that it can be easily understood, remembered, and acted upon. The idea was not only to ensure the vision’s longevity but also to share it with others, inspiring action toward a collective goal.
In many ways, modern vision boards function in the same way. While we may no longer carve visions into stone or papyrus, the principle remains: by externalizing our goals through imagery, we reinforce them in our minds. Today’s vision boards typically consist of pictures, words, or symbols—often cut from magazines or printed materials—arranged on a board to visually represent personal aspirations, whether in career, relationships, health, or lifestyle. The science behind vision boards aligns with psychological principles such as visualization and the reticular activating system (RAS). When we repeatedly see images of our goals, our subconscious mind begins to filter opportunities and information that align with them. This process helps clarify our focus, maintain motivation, and direct our actions toward achieving those aspirations. The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, which is based on the law of attraction, popularized the concept of using vision boards to manifest one’s desires.
As someone who actively uses vision boards, I can personally attest to their power. Seeing a visual representation of my goals every day has helped me stay focused, motivated, and aligned with my aspirations. Rather than cutting out a bunch of magazine clippings, you can easily create a digital vision board using online platforms. You can then set it as a screensaver, share it across all your devices, or print it out to keep in a visible place. No matter how you choose to create one, a vision board is a simple yet powerful tool to manifest the life you desire. The power of visualization has stood the test of time—and it truly works.
Mo Mahmood's Monumental Vision for America
Contributed by Jack Potvin of the American Sunshine Movement
America stands on the precipice of its 250th anniversary—a nation with a storied past and an uncertain but exciting future. At the heart of this pivotal moment is Mo Mahmood, a 25-year-old visionary entrepreneur determined to reignite the American spirit through monumental architecture. His mission? To build the next great American monument—a project grand enough to inspire generations and bold enough to spark what he calls the American Renaissance.
Mahmood’s vision extends far beyond erecting statues; it’s about cultivating a culture of pride, optimism, and ambition. He envisions a future where American cities are adorned with towering sculptures, breathtaking architecture, and tributes to the great individuals who shaped the nation. His approach embraces the aesthetic ideals of classical modernity—a movement that harmonizes beauty, grandeur, and technological progress.
Mo has already made significant strides toward this grand vision. Last year, he completed construction of his first monument in the heart of Texas oil country: a 54-foot Spindletop Oil Gusher named Wellspring of Progress, dedicated to what many consider the birthplace of the modern petroleum industry. Mahmood believes Spindletop was the catalyst for Texas’s industrialization, transforming the state into an economic powerhouse and helping propel the United States to become the world’s leading energy producer. This advantage proved critical as the U.S. supplied much of the oil for its allies during World War I.
His next major endeavor is a Saturn V rocket sculpture—an homage to America’s pioneering spirit in space exploration. But this is just the beginning. Mahmood dreams of constructing a Colossus of Rhodes-style statue, the largest in the Western world. He envisions a resurgence of national pride, where ticker-tape parades, world’s fairs, and celebrations of American excellence become commonplace.
This isn’t nostalgia—it’s a forward-looking blueprint. Mahmood argues that America has been far too timid in recent decades when it comes to large-scale public works. He points to past World’s Fairs, which gave the world architectural marvels like the Eiffel Tower and the Space Needle while influencing movements such as Art Deco. Why, he asks, aren’t we building world wonders today? With America’s technological advancements and vast resources, the only thing missing is the will to create.
His optimism about America is rooted in its unique cultural DNA—one that prizes freedom, innovation, and human rights. While acknowledging that no society is perfect, he sees America as an open canvas, brimming with opportunity. He firmly believes that the future of Western architecture will be shaped not in Europe but in the United States. And Mo is determined to ensure that classical beauty and monumental craftsmanship remain cornerstones of American identity.
Mahmood’s movement aligns with the rise of startup cities—new, purpose-built communities designed from the ground up with modern infrastructure and aesthetics in mind. He argues that these experimental urban centers are the perfect places to resurrect the grand architectural ambitions of the past, housing the next wave of monumental art and becoming hubs of innovation and inspiration.
His ultimate goal is clear: to revive the art of monument-building in America, to remind its citizens of their greatness, and to ensure that future generations grow up surrounded by symbols of ambition and excellence. As we approach 2030, Mahmood sees the potential for a new golden age—one that mirrors the optimism of postwar America but with a distinctly modern twist.
But what if the next great American monument wasn’t just a dream? What if it stood tall in New Hampshire, a state rich with historical significance? Imagine a life-sized spacecraft, soaring over 100 feet into the sky, dedicated to Alan Shepard—the first American in space and a native of Derry, NH. Perhaps it could stand proudly on the grounds of Pinkerton Academy, home of the Astros, serving as both a tribute to the daring spirit of American exploration and an inspiring beacon for thousands of young minds.
Jack muses about this captivating concept with an AI-generated image below. If Mahmood’s vision teaches us anything, it’s that bold dreams can become reality. After all, if we can see it, we can be it. See Mo’s website here to learn more and support his mission.
Positive Profile of the Week: Ryan Day – National Champion College Football Coach
This week we are delighted to highlight an inspirational New Hampshire native – Ryan Day – whose life is a testament to the idea of ‘See it – and - Be it!’
In the world of college football, few figures embody the power of vision and perseverance quite like Ryan Day. Long before he took the helm as head coach of the Ohio State football program, Ryan was a kid growing up in Manchester, New Hampshire, dreaming of success—the kind that comes from seeing it first and then making it happen. That mindset has been at the core of his journey to leading one of the most storied programs in college sports.
Ryan is a firm believer in the power of vision. Before the 2024 season even began, he told reporters, “I have this vision in my head of us holding up the national championship trophy and everyone in Buckeye Nation, 12 million strong, singing the fight song.” That kind of clarity and conviction doesn’t just happen—it’s built over years of preparation, belief, and an unwavering commitment to chasing greatness.
His collegiate journey began on the field, where he played quarterback at the University of New Hampshire under the guidance of legendary coach Chip Kelly. As a player, Ryan was known for his leadership and his ability to anticipate plays before they unfolded. After his playing days, he took his first coaching job at his alma mater, working with the tight ends. From there, he steadily climbed the coaching ranks, learning from some of the best minds in football and proving himself at every step.
What makes Ryan’s story so inspiring is where he started. Coming from a place where powerhouse football programs aren’t the norm, he had to believe in himself before anyone else did. He had to envision his path to the top long before the opportunity presented itself. For young athletes and dreamers back in New Hampshire, his journey proves that success isn’t reserved for those born into it—it belongs to those willing to put in the work and trust the process.
The See It, Be It mindset isn’t just about football; it applies to any pursuit in life. The first step is believing it’s possible. Ryan Day saw his future long before he lived it, and his journey from UNH quarterback to leading the Buckeyes to the 2025 National Championship is a testament to the power of vision backed by effort.
For those in New Hampshire—young athletes, aspiring coaches, or anyone with a big dream—Ryan Day’s story serves as a powerful reminder: If you can see it, you can be it.
Quote of the Week: See It and Be It!
"Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve."
Napoleon Hill
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