Reading the news this morning was very depressing — as it often is these days. It wasn’t a very good way to start my day. Then, out of some far-away storage place in my mind, I started humming an old Sunday School song: “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine…” That’s when I realized that I can’t control all the “crazy” stuff that is happening in the word. but there is something I can control — “my light”.
“Hide it under a bushel — No! I’m going to let it shine” Each of us has our own abilities and therefore ways of letting our light shine. However the easiest way to let our light shine is through our smile. Smile at everyone, everywhere — purposefully — to spread joy. Small acts of kindness are also very meaningful. They help remind other people that they are noticed and that their needs are recognized, even the little things. Being more intentional in out interactions with others is a great way to let our light shine.
“Don’t let Satan blow it out — I’m going to let it shine”. So many things, like reading the news, can rob us of our joy. Everything seems hopeless and overwhelming and we retreat into a darker place. We can become discouraged when we don’t get back when we give to others, when our efforts don’t seem to be appreciated. Life becomes harder, too, when we don’t take care of ourselves physically, emotionally and spiritually. Being more intentional about the things we expose ourselves to, being realistic about our expectations and taking care of ourselves, can help our light keep shining.
“Let it shine ’til Jesus comes–I’m going to let it shine”. Hopefully being more positive in all areas of our lives can become a lifetime habit. It would be a better world for all of us. So much of our lives is about the choices we make. Many years ago, I sang with abandon: “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine”. I had no idea then how difficult it might be to live out those words some days. But if each of us can agree that change starts “with me”, we can make the world a brighter place. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!!
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