Illuminating

The Maple tree just left of center looks to be glowing from the inside, lit up internally.

Maybe you've heard of people referred to as Luminaries.  They are individuals who are influential or famous within an area of activity.  Edgar Allan Poe, Vincent van Gogh, and Michelangelo are luminaries in their fields.

Just what made them so?  A good portion comes from the natural ability they were blessed with at birth.  But from there, their mentors, teachers, and examples provided tinder and sparks that lit the fire burning within.

It is an on-going process.  Whether the illumination is enough to capture the world's attention, or just chase darkness from the corners - our inner light comes from talent and ability given us at birth shaped by those around us.

Literature abounds with fictional and non-fictional examples of those who influence and coach small sparks into flame.

Yet, those internal flames reflect and refract and multiply the impact of the torch-bearers before us.  It should challenge us to thank those who illuminate us, and find flickering wisps of fire that need encouragement to burst into flame.

This could be a formal process, signing up with Big Brothers - Big Sisters, for example.  Helping coach a youth team is one way to go, and offering a figurative pat on the back to a new or young work colleague can stoke their fire.

Soon, the student grows into a teacher who eventually stands to the side so their light leaves center stage so a new light can shine.

Those are the thoughts that cross my mind looking at this forest landscape. The trees capture all the attention for the many colors and grandeur displayed.  The sun, the source of all light, is off toward the corner almost an after-thought happy to be sharing its light through others.

Go and do like-wise.