“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people the permission to do the same.” – Marianne Williamson

Shining your light illuminates everyone on your path.  You can literally see someone light up when you give them a smile, do a small act of kindness, or ask how they’re doing. I appreciated the power of it today saying hello to the maintenance man at the city’s recreation center.  He was cleaning lights in the parking garage.  Being a hot day, I told him to stay cool.

He walked over to me and started chatting.  I could tell he took pride in his work because people complimented him regularly  – “the mirrors in the dance room are so clean, the floor is clean and not slippery, thank you for brightening up our center.”  He beamed as he repeated these compliments to me.  When people know they’re appreciated and making a difference, they’re encouraged to do more good things.

Later I met with a young friend of my mother, who was a mentor to her giving guidance during a critical time.  She said it created a ripple effect as she provides guidance now to another friend of hers.   We are naturally drawn to positive energy. Kindness is contagious.  Shine your light and pass it on.