Be The Light

Once a month, I get to participate in a women's networking event. We get together, enjoy a catered dinner, listen to speakers, and network with each other. Not because we're trying to grow profit margins, bank accounts, or even client lists. But to be relational. We build friendships. There are so many women that attend, and no two are alike. Every single one of them has fed my soul with something- happiness, laughter, inspiration. When we are together, we are honest, and open, and vulnerable. These women... every single one of them... is a light in the darkness of a world of doubt, uncertainty, and insecurity.

Deciding to pursue freelance writing, and even writing this blog, I was stepping into the unknown. I had no idea what was coming, or what I was headed toward. I just had a dream, a fire burning inside of me that said it was time, and so I jumped. But despite the darkness of the unknown and uncertainty, there has been light that has guided me. Like stars that twinkle in the night, and can only be seen in the presence of darkness, these women, among many others, have become my light. When I'm with them I am inspired to take another step into the unknown, because I am not alone. My journey is just that, mine, but I choose to surround myself with people who encourage me, who push me to succeed. I have had to let go of their ideas that my goals, my dreams, are crazy and out of reach. It's not that those people want me to fail, in fact, they love me and think that by cautioning me that they are helping me, but I've had to recognize that those concerns aren't a reflection of me, but rather the comfort zones those people live within. I'm choosing to step out of my comfort zone, to pursue what is in my heart. And that means jumping despite my fears, despite the risk, despite the doubt. Failure is only assured when I don't try.

"An awake heart is like a sky that pours light."

~Hafiz

Take a chance. Be brave. You never know when you're being the light for someone else. Shine your brightest.