What does it mean to Shine?

What does it mean to shine?  When I think of that word - shine, I think of something that stands out among others, something that sparkles. It catches you eye, your attention and makes you look twice.  I think of something that glows, that is clean, new looking, something that is clear and spotlighted in focus.

So how do we, as people, shine?  We shine by having all those qualities, a clear focus, a sparkle, something that catches the attention of others, but I’m not talking about something flashy that you wear. Someone who shines has an inner glow that goes beyond the quick second glance and holds attention.  It creates true attraction.  

That inner light comes when we are true to ourself, living life authentically and to its fullest, actively serving a purpose that our heart is truly calling us to champion.  We shine when we honor ourselves and our needs, and we also honor others.  We shine when we take it upon ourselves to always strive to be better, but also have the humility to know we can always learn from someone else and never act as if we have arrived; when we have the grace to forgive; when we have the generosity to put someone else’s need first; when we have a grateful and loving heart.

In short, we shine by always striving to do and be our best version of ourselves. 

So I ask, what is your heart calling you to do?  Why? Are you currently in a place where you can follow that dream?  What needs attention to help you become the best possible version of yourself physically, mentally and spiritually so that you can follow your passion and sustain it?  Where is it that you would like to start?  Pick one area of your life, start there, and then, gradually, build on it.  It’s time.