Recently, during a Zoom meeting of life-minded individuals, writers; each of us personally touched by ALS. A poem was shared about allowing oneself to be comfortable shining your inner light. This turned into a discussion about sparkle, a person’s sparkle.

But what is sparkle? It is, in essence, the energy one emmits that lights a path. A path that guides you and others to what brings purpose. We each have sparkle, and most of us spend our lives doubting our own sparkle. Believing that it’s not worthy of sharing with the world.

During the same meeting, the term imposter syndrome was also referenced. To be honest, this is something I struggle with personally. I really have to pinch myself often respective my blessed life. You may ask how I can think this, given my ALS. Have you met my wife and kids? How can I not think this.

ALS has literally stripped me of many fears, such as public speaking. Many of you may not believe me when I say I am at the core an introvert. I have never been comfortable center stage. I am, in fact, most comfortable at the back of the room. But here I am.

One thing that has driven me and caused me to inject myself into ALS related situations has been the absence of a person with ALS being involved. Unaware at the time, but I was practicing the mantra of one of our ALS heroes, Sandy Moris. She implored and fought to make sure any research in the development of therapies included persons living with ALS… “Nothing about us, without us!”

I don’t have the brightest lite or Sparkle, but it’s mine, and that’s enough. The world doesn’t need to be lit by a single light. That would be boringly monotone. It’s best lit by a colydoscope of lights. Creating a beautiful spectrum for us to see each other under, in ever changing hues, like our thoughts and emotions. We are not monochrome. Our actions create ripples coming in contact with others. Like the wakes of vessels on the ocean, that is life.

Yes, there are those that, on the surface, appear to make great waves. A look beneath the surface will reveal that there is little substance creating such waves. The smooth gliding vessels create little but consistent ripples. These are the ones that leave a lasting impression.

So, all of that to say this. No one dictates what, when, or how you share your light, sparkle, or the ripples you make. Least of all anyone that purports to speak on behalf of others without being open to those voices.

Shine bright for yourself.

Sparkle for others

Make ripples others feel.

Never feel you are not worthy because you are. You are worthy of being your brightest, sparkliest (sic) self.

TJO