DeborahBurkeHenderson.com

JULY 2026 – SHARE YOUR LIGHT

Never underestimate the power of a smile, a kindness, or a word of encouragement for these are part of the inner light you have to offer. This light sustains you and fuels your passion. Your light may well help others cope with dark moments in their lives and in the world. Although you may never know of or understand the depth of your impact on another being, give freely and from the heart.

Mother Teresa thoughtfully shared, “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”

Think of a time when another’s words or actions touched you. When we are authentic and vulnerable, we lay a strong foundation for relationships and open the door to opportunities for greater connection, engagement, and discovery. Trust yourself. Trust that, underneath all the layers, everyone is in search of the same thing – a sense of belonging and acceptance. An innate desire to love and be loved.

American self-help author Karen Salmansohn adds, “Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.”

Salmansohn’s quote reminds me of a permanent signboard message in front of our local elementary school which reads, “Be the reason someone smiles today.” That invitation brightens my heart whenever I see it. Then I reflect on my day and whether I have offered a tenderness toward another being. Simple things help direct our lives and keep us on track, living in a meaningful way.

Be sure, however, to tend your inner light, that it may continue to shine. Make time for self-care, self-compassion, activity and stillness, pausing and reflecting, honesty and discovery, the power of breathwork, and finding balance.

A valuable guide, Soulfire: Igniting Inner Strength in a Fractured World by Arthur P. Ciaramicoli, E.D.D., Ph.D. draws on his 45 years’ experience as a clinical psychologist. Soulfire offers a wealth of wisdom and information, including vignettes, tools, and reflection exercises on being a source of light without draining yourself dry.

Life is a mixture of shadows and lights, trials and inspirations. On the other side of darkness, know that light flows. We must acknowledge and welcome both. When we hold onto the light, we are better prepared to face and move through moments of darkness. Together, these experiences shape us. As we focus on maintaining and strengthening our inner light, our heartfelt contributions are sure to brighten the world.

Blessings to you and yours,

Deborah

      ________________________

“Do not judge each day by the harvest you reap,

but by the seeds you plant.”

—Robert Louis Stevenson

My morning mantra:

"I arise this morning with a smile. Twenty-four brand new hours are before me. 

I vow to live fully in each moment and to greet every being I meet with compassion."

        ~ Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Buddhist monk, peace activist 

                                                                                    [1926 - 2022]