Moments D183: Flashlights

I know, I know. It sounds kinda crazy that today's special moment is because of a flashlight. But hear me out and you'll (hopefully) see the light.

(Sorry I couldn't help myself!)

When I was first inspired to dig deeper and push beyond the emotional boundaries that I found myself surrounded in (due to an unhealthy marriage) I felt this internal stirring about being a light. And, months ago, in the very beginning of this process of sharing my moments with the public I had had a couple of deep discussions with people close to me. I'm sure if I was labeled or I ended up self-labeling after the discussions, but the term of endearment was I'm a "fucking flashlight". (Please pardon the profanity, but that's verbatim.)

So what the heck does that mean? Let's see if I can summarize this for you....

Well, for me it feels like most of my life my purpose in others' lives is to help shine light upon them. To find the positive. To help them seek out paths that will be more fulfilling to them. Mostly I listen, reflect and shine light in areas that they may not have considered before. This may sound egotistical, but honestly, I have a knack for it. It's not to say it's perfect or easy all the time. (After all, sometimes people don't want light shone upon them!) But in that regard, I'm a "fucking flashlight".

So with that in mind, today was one of those days that affirmed this silly label of mine.

Yesterday I had a meeting with one of my MFRs. He is a gentle and kind soul and someone, who after having an heart attack recently, is feeling as though he's having a midlife crisis. I listened and reflected back my experience with life changing moments. My struggles with my marriage and my realization that having a good, content life wasn't enough. That I wanted happiness and joy and light in my life. Is that a midlife crisis because I left the world of safe and secure behind? I didn't think so.

For me, it's about evolving and being better versions of ourselves and recognizing what is holding us back. We all have the potential to shine a little brighter. He seemed quite moved by the sharing of thoughts and noted that he was going to think more upon my perspective that he felt enlightened. We laughed and said our good-byes.

And then, this morning, I received an email from this gentlemen as a follow up to our meeting. The first line: "It was great to chat with you yesterday too.....enlightening!"

I smiled. He actually meant it. It was in black and white now. My job as a flashlight successful.

Moments to shine light.

Moments to evolve.