Beacon of Hope

Earlier this summer, I was able to enjoy a weekend in Chicago with friends. There always seems to be endless things to experience and this trip was no different. One of the afternoons after enjoying brunch, my friends and I decided to walk back along Michigan Avenue (the magnificent mile), to the place we were staying.

To our delight, fifty, six-foot lighthouses were scattered along both sides of the avenue. As I read about the lighthouses, the tag line stated, “Celebrating Access and Inclusion for People with Disabilities.” Many of the beautiful lighthouses were created by artists with disabilities. Each one told a story and was beautiful in it’s own right. It was wonderful to witness the imagination and pride that went into developing each one. The artists that created the beautiful and meaningful works of art, didn’t let circumstances or limitations stop them.

Sometimes people get stuck, thinking they don’t have what it takes, or something is too hard to achieve. This kind of limited beliefs thinking, keeps us paralyzed from finding and sharing our life’s purpose. If we can get out of our heads and into our heart space, the dreams are limitless. Surround yourself with supportive people, and leap into a world of endless possibilities. Keep the nay-sayers at bay and take baby steps, if you must, towards your goal. Those little baby steps will string together to equal miles of courage and success. Celebrate any small victory and let it fuel your next one.

Just as the artists of the lighthouses imagined, believed and created their masterpieces from their heart, we all deserve to shine. We are all worthy to be loved, treated equal, have life-changing experiences, feel like we matter, find opportunity and be blessed. It’s a beacon of hope shining through the darkness that will forge our path ahead. Are you ready to be the light and shine?

xoxox…..Sheryl