“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 frightens us most. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?’ 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 people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” -Maryanne Williamson
Today at a local business I was recognized by the owner. He mentioned that he had been following my story. It was nice to be noticed. As I turned to leave, the owner hesitated, and with his body leaning forward asked, “How are you doing?” I could tell by his body language that he was a bit uncomfortable, yet at the same time he appeared curious, interested and concerned. I was glad that he was bold enough to ask. The manner in which he proposed the question was not the standard, “How are you?” that anticipates the customary response, “Fine”. He didn’t use a “So, is it going to rain today?” tone of voice. Even though unsure of my reaction, he dared to solicit for my reply. In return, I was thankful to be invited into a conversation. I was even more appreciative that he cared.
When I finally walked outside to my car, I noted that this simple interaction was a highlight to my day. I almost went back in to tell the storekeeper, but realized I have my own insecurities and didn’t want to seem odd. It dawned on me today that confidence does not come from natural tendency; rather it is born from taking the risk to go beyond our uncertainty.
