Our Deepest Fear is Not That We Are Inadequate
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 does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not 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 others permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others. – Marianne Williamson, A Return To Love
These words stir up within us the opportunity to reflect on how we see ourselves. How we see ourselves has a profound impact on how we show up in the world and the impact we have on others.
The phrase, “Your playing small does not serve the world” jumps out at me. I find it much easier to play small and play safe but every time I do, I miss the opportunity to be a light for others.
In the movie, Coach Carter, there’s a scene where the students decide to be brave and tackle the challenge they face. One of the students uses these words to state the choice they are making to face their fears and shine their light. You can watch it here.
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About Cam Taylor
Coach, author, speaker, father, friend, leader, life long learner.