Shining Brightly

Lovely stained-glass window I spied during a tour of 
Billie Creek Village (Parke County, Indiana) in July 2007.

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross once said, “People are like stained-glass windows.  They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”  How very insightful! 

Sadly, I think for some (and, too often it’s amongst women), there’s a hesitation to shine boldly and brightly.  There’s this fear of worrying that others will not approve, or that it’s too self-serving.

I, however, subscribe to another train of thought.  The one that believes it is not only each person’s right, but responsibility, to shine.  My rationale coincides with Kuber-Ross’s statement.  Here goes:  Whether it is through our art, the celebrations we orchestrate or the love we send out to others, we, as women, love making this world a beautiful place.  Part of this splendor is that inner light we allow to shine so brightly.  It illuminates the path for others; brightens their day; enables them to transcend whatever it is that blocks their own way.   In essence, when shining, we become that lovely stained-glass window for others to enjoy—to be inspired by. 

Consider it as a responsibility of sorts.  Shine on!  T.