Dare To Dream!

Prison in Robben Island

 

I have been inspired by many leaders and Nelson Mandela is one of the leaders I admire the most. He is 94 years old but in a critical condition. While I pray for him, I am overwhelmed by his life and his achievements.  It reminds me of his courage and commitment even while in prison. This picture speaks volumes! It is taken in his cell which was home to him for so long. 

I have not yet read his autobiography, “Long walk to Freedom” which is a must buy. However this interview by Oprah Winfrey is a must read. (http://www.oprah.com/world/Oprah-Interviews-Nelson-Mandela/1)

Today I am reminded of a poem/extract by Marianne Williamson that touched me when I was growing up.  It was  powerful then and even now.  Yes, I believe that you can be whatever you want to be and nobody can change it!

Our Deepest Fear

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 most frightens us.

We ask ourselves
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God. 

Your playing small
Does not serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won't feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine,
As children do.
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 everyone.

And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we're liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.