Light Bearer

A few weeks ago my friend Christian sent me a reel on Instagram by interior designer @david.quarlesiv. I needed it. His caption read:

"I come from a long line of light workers; ones who catalyze the joy that needs to be felt - even when it has to be created. We all have things in this world that may try to hold us back, keep us down and away from realizing our full potential. Sometimes, if not careful, we can even start believing in what causes us to doubt just how amazing we are. Instead of letting that happen, each day we wake up, we need to remind ourselves our our power, how beautiful we are, and that everything we want to achieve will work out in the end. And with that energy, walk out into this world with your head held high, stepping into the light only you can radiate... because if you've not yet noticed, there's nobody like you."

I was so moved by the post. Even though I have greatly reduced my social media intake for my mental health, I've noticed I'm still overwhelmed when I do check in at the distressing news of the world. Listen, it is still there. And I want to be well informed - without giving in to despair. So, a message reminding us to be light bearers was a light in itself.

Many of you know that one of my favorite passages is Matthew 5:13-16: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

These verses are some of the reasons behind my SALT curriculum (new group starts this fall!) and inspires/challenges me daily to be salt and light. My favorite yoga studio near me - Haven Yoga - ends their sessions with this phrase - "You are salt and you are light, fully known and fully loved." Oh how I need that reminder!

In these final days of Lent, we are still being invited to sit in the shadows. I always feel drawn into the darkness of Lent, facing my fears straight on and having permission to just be. And yet, Easter is coming. I have to hold onto the hope of light, even in the darkest places.

Recently someone I admire said, "We don't have the luxury to give into despair." Wow, that hit home. Hold on, dear friend. Whatever darkness you find in your path, hold on. Reach out for a friend, take our hand.

And if you find yourself outside of the shadows today, may you be a light bearer for others. Look around and find a place to shine light. So many people are looking for hope. May your life reflect some.