Be a light.
This is the phrase to which I keep returning today. I went to bed in darkness last night and woke up to both literal and figurative darkness with the news this morning. To a world that I genuinely fear will be less safe, less kind, less thoughtful, less warm, less inclusive – less free.
But throughout the day, I kept hearing “Be a Light” repeating in my nauseous, anxious, pounding head.
I can’t change the outcome of yesterday’s (or the last few years’) events or predict what may happen in the next few – but I can make choices for how I want to act in my world and my life, with my family, my community, my team.
What can I do to make a difference? When I know that half of the nation – and far more than half of my circle – are struggling right now – and will be for a long time time come. I can use my strengths to serve. Empathy is my superpower- so I can open my heart, mind, arms, and home to those who need. And I can make choices – ones that might shine a light on this darkness.
I can choose kindness – in my words, my thoughts, and my actions. Kindness to both myself and others.
I can choose to be thoughtful – in my words and my actions and create space for others to be so also.
I can choose to be warm – a comforting glow and soft shoulder for my friends, family, and community.
I can choose to be inclusive – opening my heart, mind, arms, and home to all who come to my door or cross my path.
I can choose freedom – and fight for it too.
I can choose to be a safe haven for all – a light in the darkness.
As Brene Brown says, “I can’t make this go away, but I can sit in the dark with you.” And I can Be a Light.