If you’ve ever been in a yoga class or in different spiritual circles, you have likely heard the word, “Namaste.” A common interpretation of the word is, “The light in me sees the light in you.” Do you believe everyone has this light inside of them, and look for it?
We can’t see this light in others if we can’t see past stigma and bias. If we want to see and acknowledge this light in ALL others, then we must look past race, gender, sexual orientation, age, all illness or injury-whether physical or mental, etc.
We don’t have to agree with all others on everything in order to honor this place that resides within them. However, we do have to open our hearts. Whether we understand and/or agree with others, or not, we can still display care, compassion, and (at the very least) nonviolence toward others.
When we really *look to see/find this light in others, we display compassion and care that’s empowering. We can offer this light to others and even boost their light. This empowering light supports them and strengthens them so they can expand their light outward to others too. Namaste everyone, Namaste!
Cheri Thomas
Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist at Recovery Innovations. She writes as an expression of her heart in hopes of connecting to others’ hearts, so that no one feels alone on this journey-and instead feels valued, seen, and heard while growing in empowerment.