THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE

“No one else knows how to be you. Others can only tell you how to be more like them.” Madonna

We are each born with unique gifts

A glimmer of heavenly divinity

An offering to be shared with the world

A purpose to fulfill

Each spark illuminating another

Yet far too often our light goes dormant

Snuffed out by fear and shame

Feelings of inadequacy

Risk of rejection

Undermining our aptitudes and squashing our dreams

We deny ourselves experience

Some taught from an early age to dim our brightness

Cautioned that goals are unobtainable

Admonished for showing off

Subdued to fit in

Our community is often critical

Envious of our skills

Shrinking our self-esteem

Feeding on insecurity

Encouraging us to give up and blend in

Leaving only a mere ember

Today, I dare to share my light

Revealing all the beauty and imperfection of my soul

Possessing hope over despair

Embodying peace over chaos

Experiencing joy over sorrow

Projecting like a lighthouse to the broken and hurting

Enriching the darkest places

Conveying promise in my own little sphere

I will not hide, I choose to shine

Allow myself to be brilliant

Show love, kindness, and goodness

Forgiving what can’t be forgotten

Be authentic

Encourage others

Share a smile

Give a hug

Play you a song

Embrace all the pieces that make me different

EMH2022