SHiNE!

I have been reading  (and thinking) a lot about vulnerability and courage lately and what really causes us to SHINE.  I think it's wonderful to be courageous enough to expose all our gremlins; the "am I good enough?', fears, trepidations, things we hate about ourselves but are trying to accept or change etc. It gets it out in the open where we can deal with it plus others can learn and grow from our stories by realizing that these are universal feelings; part of the human experience. But that's only one side of  the story. The other part of vulnerability is also acknowledging our strengths-the "you know...I am a great baker, photographer, mother, gardener..."Not in a grandiose or narcissistic way (which isn't really vulnerability at all but rather insecurity) but in a quiet, self assured way that also encourages and supports others in their SHINING.  I think this is what really makes us shine-this very quiet and humble appreciation and declaration of all our unique gifts. Our vision and heart and mind and....are all one of a kind. Now that's  cause for celebration and SHINING...I think it is the KNOWING of our SHINING that causes us to SHINE! Today, I hope we can all SHINE a little brighter:)