"I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being"

When you’re feeling alone or stuck in a dark place, it’s hard to see the amazing things about yourself. The core idea here is about recognizing your own worth and beauty, even when times are tough. There's a light inside each one of us, a special something that makes us unique and strong, but it can be hard to see it sometimes.

This kind of sentiment resonates with many people because we've all been there—feeling isolated or in a "dark" period of life. The quote speaks to the desire to help others realize their own inner strengths and qualities, which are sometimes hidden by the clouds of our current difficulties or challenges.

Let’s think about a real-life example. Imagine a teenager named Alex. He's struggling with school, feeling disconnected from his friends, and dealing with family problems at home. He feels like he’s not good enough, like he’s failing at everything. One day, his school counselor, Ms. Thompson, sits him down and talks to him about all the wonderful things she sees in him. She points out his creativity in art class, his kindness in helping a new student, and the resilience he’s shown in tough times. Slowly, Alex starts to see himself through her eyes—a bit more brightly each day. It doesn't solve all his problems, but he begins to understand that he has a light within him, one that’s been there all along.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, it's crucial to practice self-compassion. When you're feeling low, remind yourself of moments when you've been strong, kind, or creative. Write them down if you have to. Sometimes, we need to be our own Ms. Thompson and highlight our own strengths and victories, no matter how small they seem. Another way is to surround yourself with people who uplift you and see the good in you—friends, family, mentors. They can help you see the light when you can't find it yourself.

Picture this scenario: You’re having one of those days where everything feels heavy. Work is piling up, you’ve had a fight with a friend, and you just feel...bleak. You decide to call your best friend, the one who always knows how to cheer you up. As you talk, they remind you of the time you helped them through a tough breakup, or how you’ve managed to keep your plant alive for months (which is a big deal, considering your track record). They help you see the little beams of light that are always there, even when you’re feeling dark.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help in spotting your own light. We all need a reminder now and then of the amazing things about ourselves. And don’t forget to be that reminder for others too. If you see someone struggling, tell them what you see—show them their light. A few kind words can be a lifeline, helping someone realize their own worth and beauty, even when they can’t see it themselves.