Saturday, June 17, 2006

Heroes

So for girl's camp this year we're trying to find inspirational young women in history that our girls can emulate, such as Joan of Arc. This is really a toughie, though, seeing as how history doesn't record much about teenage girls that is easily accessible to us. If any of you know of some young women (12-17) who have significantly stood out in history in the name of doing what is right, I'd love your suggestions. Thanks!

Thursday, June 01, 2006

Inspiration

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 most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?"

Who are you not to be?

You are a child of the Universe. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the Glory of the Universe that is within us.

It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone.

As 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.

--Nelson Mandela
{1994 Inaugural Speech}

I've been thinking a lot about this quote lately. It's true, we all have unlimited potential, and I am personally afraid to try. It may be because I know what I could do or because I'm afraid that I won't be able to accomplish my dreams. It's easier to dream simply and meet your goals, but much less satisfying in the end. J and I are getting a lot of work done on the house, inside and out. We have a baby on the way and a room to prepare. We're going to get the house closed so that we really own it. J's job is coming through. Life is good right now. I'm at a good place. Why can't I use this momentum? There is no reason. In fact, I would be wrong not to try.

P.S. Ber, do you still have that book on Nelson Mandela? I'd love to borrow it if you do.