PEBBLE
I think I fall in love a little bit with anyone who shows me their soul. The world is so guarded and fearful. I appreciate rawness so much.
-Emory Allen, shared by Tracie in Michigan
BOULDER
Being yourself is a continuous effort. There is always another expectation placed upon you, another person pulling you toward their preferences, another nudge from society to act a certain way. It’s a daily battle to be yourself, not merely what the world wants you to be.
-James Clear, shared via 3-2-1 Newsletter
PONDER
For most of my adult life October 11th has been known to me and my fellow LGBTQers as National Coming Out Day, an invitation for us to take our next steps in sharing our authentic selves with the world. There has been progress worth celebrating, and yet there are still too many dangers and damages inflicted on spirits that should be celebrated and not castigated.
I know that we aren’t the only ones who are made to feel unwelcome in our society, and I also know that just about every soul who reads Ripples can relate to the fears and insecurities lurking behind “What might go wrong if I show them the real me?”
I’m tossing a handful of extra sparkly love into the sky today on behalf of my fellow gayfolk (and the allies who wholeheartedly embrace us). In addition, I extend a broader invitation to anyone who longs to more authentically show up in the world: Come out, come out…whoever you are. The world needs your sparkle, too!
Peace,
Paul
P.S. Thank you for letting me be me!
