My husband took this pic while on our hike through Watkins Glen State Park in New York and I’ve been mesmerized by it ever since. Not just because he captured the beauty of this magnificent gorge and one of the 19 waterfalls gleaming in the distance, but I’m captivated by the “light”. How the brilliance streams from above, dances on leaves, and outlines me with a golden glow.
The scene reminds me of my life journey, and perhaps you can relate. I’ve always been able to see the Light in others with perfect clarity. The way their splendor beams down on others, glistens on their surroundings, and hovers around their being. Standing in the presence of such a person leaves a tangible residue on your soul.
But up until a few years ago, I never believed I was capable of emanating such a light. My self-esteem clung more to the shadows of weakness and failure. I spent decades cloaking myself in protective armor and self-preservation. Hiding my brokenness, imperfections, and insecurities with blackout shades, hoping the world would have to squint to see the real, unworthy me. All the layering up with make-believe masks to hide the worst of ‘who I thought I was’ only prevented me from lamplighting the best of ‘who I am’ to the world around me.
Seeing the aura surrounding me in this picture reminded me of how far I’ve come on the road towards self-love, self-acceptance, and authentic freedom. For too long I didn’t know my true identity was who I am in Christ: a beloved child worthy to shine. Now I believe I can emit light without needing help from the sun. Being a luminary from within is possible because God placed the Light of Love inside my heart.
This same Light is in all of us. But how many of us believe in its power?
Over time, I’ve learned to let myself crack and let go of the restraining orders. To stop projecting pretend personas so my authentic self—love at the core—can push through the seams and out through my pores.
