Shine Your Light

In the past week I have been reminded by a very dear friend that the people and things in the past no longer have a place in my present.  These people and situations are in the past for a reason and giving them energy and focus only takes away from my plans and focus for the future.  She asked that I look around at the people around me and what I have achieved because that is what is important.  In taking her advice I have come to realize just how blessed I am.  I have some incredibly wonderful people in my life who have also stepped forward to pick me up, dust me off, and shine their light into the darkness to help me find my way back. 

With a grateful heart I thank them for helping me to remember that I have come a long way on this path.  With a humble heart I thank them for their faith in me and showing me that I am making a difference even if I lose sight of that at times.  With a joyful heart I rejoice with them for showing me that I am not alone on this journey any longer.  One of my favorite quotes is “I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.” ~Hafiz  These incredible people have done that for me.  They have gently helped me realize that I am being too hard on myself and that I deserve better. 

While we may feel that we are each alone on our life’s journeys, I’d like to ask you to take some time to sit and reflect on where you were six months ago, one year ago, five years ago.  At those times in your life did you ever think you would be where you are right now?  Have you discovered assistance, inspiration or support in places you never imagined?  I’d like to encourage you to take a moment to reflect on these amazing people and what they mean to you.  If you can, thank them for their support or tell them how they inspired you.  Most of us would be very surprised about how we have impacted the lives of those around us.   After all you may feel you are just one person in the world, but to one person you may BE the world.