Quote of the Week

“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 frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when 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.”

Used by Nelson Mandela in his 1994 Inaugural Speech

On a personal note: This quote has been such an inspiration in my life! I have used it to encourage youth to hold their heads high and stand tall. When in high school my friend used to tell me all the time, no one can make you feel inferior without your permission. I had to be reminded of that often since being a teen is not the easiest age in the world. I hope this quote also empowers you as it has me.