The other day, I was sitting in the car blasting my music–what’s new–when suddenly Rihanna’s song, “Shine Bright Like a Diamond,” came on. Now, ordinarily this moment wouldn’t stand out to me, but for some reason this Rihanna song in particular did. I found myself closing my eyes, snapping my fingers, bobbing my head–the typical grooving motions. Of all of the songs I’d listen to that particular day, this one stood out the most. The lyrics resonated with me. Shine bright like a diamond…
As I sat there grooving to the music, I couldn’t help but think about the importance of shining brightly, and its difficulties. You see, there are people whose main goal in life is to dim the light of others, and dash their dreams. In other words, there are a number of haters out there who would love nothing more than the satisfaction of bringing you down, especially when you’re living life brightly and boldly. I remember hearing a sermon a few weeks ago that validated this point. The minister shared this salient point: folks will critique, belittle, demean, offend those who are doing well. When you’re doing the right thing, people recognize that and they will respond accordingly. The interesting thing here is that regardless of your actions, you won’t be able to control how others react. The only thing you have control over is yourself. So no matter what, shine so brightly like the diamonds you are.
While you radiate, remember to radiate goodness, to think of your radiance as a positive, not a negative, and remember to use it that way! Don’t shine or radiate in a way where you think you’re better than anyone or mistreat people. Use your light for good. Use your warmth to warm others. Sometimes the coldest folks just need a little love to melt what they’ve built up on the inside. A simple smile can be an easy remedy. Smile, and never stop smiling. People always ask me if I ever stop smiling, and since I could remember, the answer has always been the same—no. When you radiate goodness, positivity, and warmth, you’ll keep winning in life. Be beacons of both hope and light for yourself and for others. Matthew 5:16 says “Let your light shine before others in such a way that people will see your good deeds and glorify your Father.” When you let your light shine, when you serve as a good role model, people will recognize that spirit and will want to be around you. This brings me to my next point: be …
Kermit Says... 