“...as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”~Nelson Mandela

I remember a time when I used to live by this quote, and I hope that I haven't forgotten it - too much. The longer version is taken from Nelson Mandela's inauguration speech in South Africa in 1994. It can certainly be taken out of context, and perhaps has, by a sort of new age gnosticism that is pervasive.

The light, of course, should be considered Christ as the "light of the world." (Jn 9:5) As for fear, we are called to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling."(Phil. 2:12) However, all rest and consolation is found in Him, for "my yoke is easy and my burden is light."(Mt 11:28)

When I hear this quote, I think of a certain spiritual integrity that comes with being open and honest; not lying, and not having to hide things in order to give anyone a sense of false security. Ultimately, "the truth shall set you free."(Jn 8:32)