Shine

I know a beacon when I see one. Who doesn't? They're the sun-bright people doing big things in the world. They beam their light into dark corners and lead others to safe places. Beacons transform the world despite improbable odds. They inspire, and people are drawn to them like moths to...well, a big bright light.

Most beacons think nothing of their solar qualities. They are who they are. They'll do what needs to be done in the ways they're most comfortable doing things - which is big, bold, inspiring. I think they succeed, at least in part, because the gods love those big daring stories as much as we do. (And maybe Fortuna is fond of flashy lights. Seen Vegas?) Beacons exist at all levels of recognition, of course. You don't have to be internationally known or even a local celebrity to be one. We can all probably think of someone we know personally who fits the bill. It seems to be a collection of personality traits or mode of behavior more than anything else, and humility seems to be one of those traits. Beacons may draw attention, but they don't often seek it.

It takes a lot of fuel to burn so brightly. A beacon's light is built on family, friends, experiences both positive and negative, some good luck and some bad, and often a measure of security that enables them to safely reach out beyond their base. Lighthouses are built on rocks.

I've always seen myself as more of a covered lantern. The light is there if you go looking for it, but mostly there's just a steady warmth. Some people aren't cut out to be the sun. Some personalities are more lunar in nature. I've learned that the world needs both types. We all dream of being beacons, of doing big things, but small things are big things, too.

Whether you are a beacon or a lantern, (or maybe you see yourself as a flashlight or candle) you're still contributing your light to the world. Your rays may reach for miles or the glow may be barely noticed. You may have to rest while you build up your fuel supply, or an unexpected wind might fan your flame and you end up a beacon in spite of yourself. Remember that the world needs all sorts of lights, and Keep Shining.