Poetry Break: Our Deepest Fear
By Marianne Williamson
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness
That most frightens us.
We ask ourselves
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small
Does not serve the world.
There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won’t feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine,
As children do.
We were born to make manifest
The glory of God that is within us.
It’s not just in some of us;
It’s in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we’re liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.
Note: This inspirational poem is taken from Marianne Williamson’s book A Return to Love. Though often quoted as part of Nelson Mandela’s moving inaugural speech, “Our Deepest Fear” it does not appear in the speech.
Love and Blessings,
Antonia
4 Comments
Tre ~
July 29, 2009hmmm….the words..the promise…the hope…the invitation to welcome and give permission to who we each really are….touches me anew every time i read or hear this poem. (did you see akena and the spelling bee movie?) thanks for the nudge to post this…so happy to have found your blog
@tresha (twitter)
Antonia
July 29, 2009Welcome, Tre! Thank you so much for your visit and Lovely comment!
Yes, the reminders in it are so Beautiful!
Thanks for mentioning the movie! Must re-watch!
Blessings to you,
Antonia
D
August 1, 2009what a treasure. I hope you are well in this moment. Choose peace, love and understanding. It’s easy … all you need is love. Much Metta D
Antonia
August 1, 2009Thanks, D!
Indeed, I choose Love!
Blessings,
Antonia