Realizing your place in the world has little to do with your financial status, race, sexual persuasion or political beliefs. It is a spiritual journey that involves learning about yourself and where you fit in the world. Everyday you interact with the world around you. You have an impact on everything and everyone you see.
We Are All Connected: The Web of Life
Native Americans believe we live in a "web of life" where everything is connected by small strands of energy. What we do will eventually ripple outward to affect others, no matter how far distant. A smile you give to one person, may turn into a smile that is given to two more. Those two people will each smile at two or more people, and so on. A small random act of kindness can lead to great change.
Realizing your place also means acknowledging your gifts. Some have the gift of voice, others are skilled at writing, drawing or creating. No matter what your specific talent, it is yours to do with as you see fit. You can allow it to remain dormant, or you can hone it into something that can be shared with others.
Your potential to impact the world around is much greater than you think. A single word or phrase can destroy a person's self esteem. On the other hand, simple word of praise or the touch of a reassuring hand can lift a person from the depths of despair and give them a reason to hope. It's your choice how to use your gifts.
Grace and Gratitude
As you look around you, it is important to think in terms of gratitude. The term "only by the grace of God" is not one to be taken lightly. Even in times of adversity when you must struggle to remain on solid ground, you are being given lessons. These lessons are there to teach you strength and spark a glimmer of hope.
When the trials pass and you begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, you can then use those valuable lessons to help others. Realizing your place is not about where you stand in society. It is about how you look at the world and finding ways that you can use your gifts to make the world a better place. It is about using your gifts and sharing your lessons.
Be a Part of the Solution
Don't be a victim of your circumstance. Be a survivor and give those around you the hope they need to succeed in whatever they are facing. Realizing your impact on the world around you gives you a unique perspective. You can either foster the problem, or help provide the momentum to bring about positive change.