People are like stained – glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out but when the darkness sets in their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.
By: Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Imagine a grand cathedral with its towering presence and intricate stained-glass windows. During the day, these windows capture the sunlight, transforming it into a kaleidoscope of colors that dance across the stone floors. They are a testament to the beauty that can be created when light meets artistry. Yet, as the sun dips below the horizon and darkness blankets the sky, something magical happens. The true essence of the stained-glass windows comes to life, not from the external light that has faded, but from the flickering candles and lamps that shine from within the cathedral. This is when the windows tell their most intimate story, glowing with an ethereal beauty that can only be seen in the absence of the sun.
This imagery beautifully encapsulates the essence of the human spirit, as described by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. People, much like stained-glass windows, have an innate beauty that is not solely dependent on external circumstances. It is in times of darkness, challenge, and adversity that the light within us can shine the brightest, revealing our true beauty and strength.
Every individual carries a light within them, a unique blend of qualities, strengths, and potentials that define who they are. This light is the essence of our being, the core of our spirit, and the source of our motivation. It is what drives us to pursue our dreams, to stand up after we fall, and to find hope in the face of despair. When life is going well, it’s easy to shine. Our light is amplified by the positivity that surrounds us, much like the stained-glass windows in the sunlight.
However, it is in the darker moments that the true test of our character emerges. It is when we face obstacles, when we feel alone, when the path ahead seems shrouded in shadow, that we must reach within ourselves to find that inner light. This light might manifest as resilience, as the courage to face our fears, or as the quiet confidence that comes from knowing we have overcome challenges before.
Darkness, in its many forms, is an inevitable part of life. It can be the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the struggle with illness, or the disappointment of a failed goal. It’s natural to feel lost or overwhelmed when darkness descends. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that we have the opportunity to discover the depth of our own light.
Embracing the darkness doesn’t mean giving in to despair. It means acknowledging our struggles, allowing ourselves to feel the full range of our emotions, and then using that experience to fuel our inner light. It is a process of transformation, where we convert our pain into strength, our failures into lessons, and our fears into stepping stones towards growth.
So how do we ignite this inner light, especially when the darkness feels overwhelming? Here are some ways to tap into that intrinsic glow:
By nurturing our inner light, we not only find our way through the darkness but also emerge with a newfound radiance that can inspire and uplift others. Our true beauty, much like that of the stained-glass windows, is most apparent when we have the courage to shine from within.
Once we have tapped into our inner light, we have the power to share it with the world. Our light can become a source of hope and inspiration for others who might be struggling in their own darkness. By sharing our stories, our wisdom, and our kindness, we can help illuminate the paths of those around us.
Remember, the beauty of a stained-glass window is not just in its ability to shine on its own, but also in how it transforms the light into something greater than itself, spreading color and warmth throughout the space it inhabits. Similarly, when we let our light shine, we have the potential to create a ripple effect of positivity and strength that extends far beyond our own lives.
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross’s quote reminds us that our true beauty is not dependent on external validation or circumstances. It is an enduring glow that persists through the highs and lows of life. It is the light of resilience, hope, and inner strength that defines who we are at our core.
So, whether you are basking in the sunlight of success or navigating the shadows of adversity, remember that your true beauty shines brightest when you allow your inner light to guide you. Be like the stained-glass windows: a source of inspiration, a beacon in the darkness, and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross was a Swiss-American psychiatrist, a pioneer in near-death studies, and the author of the groundbreaking book “On Death and Dying,” where she first discussed her theory of the five stages of grief.
The quote suggests that people’s true beauty and character are revealed during challenging times, much like how stained-glass windows show their beauty when illuminated from within, despite the darkness outside.
You can find your inner light by practicing self-compassion, seeking support, reflecting on past triumphs, finding purpose, and embracing creativity.
Sharing our light with others can provide hope, inspire resilience, and create a positive impact that extends beyond our own experiences, helping to illuminate the paths of those around us.
Yes, everyone has an inner light. It is the unique combination of qualities, strengths, and potential that resides within each person.
It’s natural for the awareness of our inner light to fluctuate. There will be times when it feels dim or distant, but with mindfulness and self-care, we can reignite it.
Darkness can reveal our true beauty by forcing us to rely on our inner strength and resilience, which are often most visible when external circumstances are challenging.
We can learn that our true beauty is not just seen in the light of good times but is also revealed through the way we navigate and shine during the dark times, powered by our inner strength and character.
We can maintain our inner light by staying connected to our values, maintaining hope, seeking joy in small things, and remembering that challenges are often temporary.
The quote conveys that personal growth often happens in the face of adversity, and it is through overcoming challenges that we can discover and reveal the full extent of our inner beauty and strength.
