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 and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s 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
I first heard this quote at Mass about a year ago in a homily delivered by Fr. Dan Riley, OFM. It’s really an incredible statement of truth and I think it’s very Franciscan and also in the spirit of the Incarnation. I challenge you to call out this light in those you meet today and everyday. Affirm those around you and never stop telling them how much you love them and how talented and lovely they are. Most people are shocked by this treatment but it could well be an antidote to the cynicism that surrounds us. I am again reminded of St. Francis of Assisi who reminded the people he came in contact with that they bore the imprint of the Most High.
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