Ever heard of the song ‘This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine…’?
This song has been sung all over the world in schools, churches, concerts and gatherings with joy and determination to put some good into the world.
How many people are letting their light shine? Not many wake up with the desire to put good into the world in a time where phrases like ‘Me first’, ‘Soft Life’, ‘Look out for number 1’ seem to be positive words to boost mental health, peace and well-being.
No one thrives living for themselves, and self-improvement cannot be proven or tested if we are not serving other people.
Because so many people are exhausted or overwhelmed from wrong or misguided priorities, stretching themselves too thin in the wrong directions, or being manipulated and abused by selfish people, we seem to have taken things to the other extreme, which encourages selfishness in the name of peace, mental wellness and boundaries.
While it is true that we must learn to say ‘no’ in a healthy way, and it is crucial not to lose ourselves in the service of others, let us not forget that it takes a village, not just to raise children, but to be the best version of ourselves.
Let us step out each day with a decision to do good both to ourselves and to others; to shine light, to lend a hand or a word of encouragement to someone in darkness or despair.
We do not have to be emotionally whole or filthy rich to do good. We need to care a little more and pay closer attention to notice those in pain around us.
I believe that small intentional steps, a willing smile and a little light can change the world, and we are the ones who make a difference every day.
A genuine smile, a brief hello, or even a 10-second phone call to say ‘thank you’, ‘I see you and appreciate your efforts’, or ‘I love you’ can go a long way in making these tough times more bearable.
Even if you’re feeling down or desperately need a miracle, take a moment to pause from your worries and reach out to other people. Share your time, your resources and yourself with those around you.
Allow yourself to show love and receive love; practice filling your cup with love that overflows to others, because it will be wrong to be focused on helping others without pausing to shine your light inwards as well.
Take little steps to feed your spirit and nourish your soul. Smile at yourself, drink water, eat a healthy meal when you can and seek to grow by learning and leaning on those around you who love and support you.
Take little steps to become a better person every day by treating those around you with kindness and consideration.
No matter how powerless you think you are, there is always an opportunity to do good. There is something you can do to help someone without going out of your way, which will make a huge difference.
Never be ashamed of your gifts or abilities, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem. David was a shepherd boy with a harp when he killed Goliath using a simple stone and sling.
Serve your gifts at every opportunity; it could be as simple as hospitality, a calm demeanor, a word of encouragement, or speaking up for someone who cannot defend themselves.
Never shy away from a challenge or an opportunity to serve. Keep a keen eye for opportunity and learn to maximise them.
While it is necessary to periodically withdraw into ourselves to rest and recharge, if we always prioritise our own needs or seek the easy way out, we will not rise to greatness or make a significant impact on the sands of time.
No one is remembered in history or made a difference by living for themselves or shying away from challenges or opportunities. Be brave and willing to step up when the opportunity presents itself.
Perhaps you are unemployed, work from home, or live a reclusive lifestyle, and you are wondering where you will meet people to serve or make a positive impact. Remember this:
You are a blessing for simply being alive and walking this earth. There is a light in you that naturally shines everywhere you go and through everything you do. Have a positive attitude that lights up a room, always have a smile, a word of encouragement or a kind word ready wherever you find yourself.
As long as you interact with people every day, physically or otherwise, the opportunity to serve with your gifts and resources comes along every day, even when we think it doesn’t count.
Keep giving and serving; it will make a considerable difference someday. It has probably made a huge impact already, but you may not be aware of it. Choose every day to intentionally let your light shine and give the best of you to yourself and others.
Live by the song that says ‘Brighten the corner where you are’; by changing your little corner, or just yourself, you are changing the world one little step with a little light at a time.
