"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
- Marianne Williamson
The other night I was discussing with a close friend the necessary distinction between confidence and arrogance. I approached the subject in an uncharacteristically hotheaded manner toward him and his external personality, but fortunately he was able to set the record straight and help me to understand his point of view. Within an arrogant individual is found narcissism and self-absorption; within a confident individual is a knowledge of oneself and gratitude for what one has been blessed with. An arrogant person is consumed with what he can gain from others, while a confident person is focused on what he can give.
A vital point to remember is that we all still have our individual needs that must be prioritized. Without our own internal stability, we haven't the capacity to share with those around us. When we recognize what power we have, how infinite our own potential is, we hold a witness that can be magnified through sharing it with other people. You have so much to offer! It doesn't matter who you are reading this; the principle is true for every single human being. There is not one wasted soul in existence.
I've said this before, but it really is so important to spend time alone and look at who you really, truly are inside. I know it sounds silly. There is nothing immature about analyzing yourself and your life. Write down everything that you like about yourself and everything you don't like. Exclude anything about physical appearance. If it's a weight issue, be specific about what causes the problem. A poor diet? Lack of motivation to exercise? Don't just say "I'm too chubby" or "I'm too skinny." Then, review your list of Don't Likes. Maybe you're lazy or habitually disrespectful. Perhaps you procrastinate or you can't break an addiction. There's a reason why certain things bother you, and that reason is that in doing those things you aren't being true to yourself. Research if you must, but come up with ways that you can turn your weaknesses into strengths.
Now, go through your list of Likes. Not on Facebook. Does your talent lie within the field of music performance, or are you better suited to listening intently? Do you have time management down pat or are you an expert at enjoying the simple things in life? You should have a long list. If you don't, think harder. This exercise is not intended to fish for your own compliments. It's meant to enable you to recognize all you have and all you can give. Own it! Allow yourself the epiphany of "Hey, I make a contribution to society." Because, like it or not, every person does in one way or another.
At this point you must make the decision - what kind of contribution will I make? Determine to make it a positive one. Marianne Williamson knows what she's talking about! It's absolutely true that by sharing the light you have, you are leading the way for others to do exactly the same. Be true to who you are and you will become an example. Don't be afraid to step forward. It's worth it!
Happy shining!
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