Hide It Under a Tree? Oh, No!

There's an old song I like to sing and the lyrics go like this: 

"This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine."

Ten gentle words wrapped in a simple tune, easy to learn and fun to sing.  Yet, we shouldn't underestimate the truth and power they contain.  We are, each of us, born with a light that makes us a unique expression of life, unlike anyone who ever was or ever will be.  That spark is easiest to see in babies and small children. The wonder in the eyes, the immense delight found in small things, the utter lack of self-consciousness.  

And as we grow and move through life, circumstances, events, even other people, seem determined to put out our light. I don't know why this is. But, I do know that we have a right, and even a responsibility to keep that light shining. Because only by being true to who we really are, can we live a life authentically ours, and contribute our own bright thread to this tapestry of life.

So, take a look at where you are today and ask yourself if this is the life you would choose. If possible, let go of old wounds. Sometimes they are very deep and have turned into life-long scars. That's all right. Be gentle with yourself and love the part of you that is vulnerable enough to be hurt. Look at the activities with which you fill your time. Do they serve the real you, or do they really serve to deaden your disappointment with neglected yearnings? Are the people in your life enriching your soul, bringing joy to your days, inspiring you to reach higher and wider than the boundaries of your fears? If not, perhaps you can build a new community.  Do you feed your body with fresh, nutritious foods that give you energy and health, or do you "live to eat", mindlessly stuffing yourself with dubious food choices?

The good news is that we get a chance to recreate our lives with every moment that we are alive. Use your moments wisely.  And, everywhere you go, let your light shine bright for all the world to see.

*Sabrina from Zany Zoo by William Wise and Lynn Munsinger