I’ve always been enamored by the breathtaking view of the sun emerging over the horizon. This morning’s view of the sun caused me to reflect on our role in the world in relation to impacting and influencing those around us. The title, “You Cannot Contain the Sun,” is a play on words that accentuates the point that I’m going to make—you should not attempt to contain the light within you regardless of the conditions you are in.

How experiences influence our perspective

I reflected on places I’d been and emotions I experienced while watching the sunrise at other points in my life. As a Marine, I’ve trained in many conditions, from desert temperatures ranging well over 120°F, to sub-zero temperatures. Sunrises in these contrasting conditions brought about differing emotions inside of me. In the desert, I was taking a deep breath for what was sure to be a scorching day with little shade or relief from the sun. I was taking advantage of the last bits of cooler air before the sun peaked over the horizon and seemingly instantly began to burn my skin. Though I always find a way to put a positive spin on things, I admittedly did not look forward to the summer sun in the desert.

Conversely, I waited for even the smallest glimpse of the sun in sub-zero temperatures! Again, I took a deep breath; except this time, it was to prepare for the icy wind and drop in temperature that, ironically, accompanied the sun. Nevertheless, I stood there admiring the sun as it rose to the top of the sky and gave me some relief and comfort from the frigid temperatures.

The lesson from the contrasting experiences with the sun

What I learned from these contrasting experiences is that, though the sun consistently rises every day, the environment I’m in at the time influences my perspective of the sun’s value. That means that we all likely have varying reactions to the same sunrise every day. Therein lies the encouraging word. The analogous light (or “sun”) within you will impact people differently. In other words, what you offer the world around you won’t be received well by everybody. What’s more is our light may be valued differently by the same person depending on their current condition. Even so, our responsibility is to shine!

Encourage someone, be kind and friendly, make someone smile, be a shoulder to lean on, and help someone in need. Lean into whatever your gift is to make an impact on others’ lives. Your job is to shine regardless of the environment you’re in or what others perceive about you. Take a look at the picture above. The clouds are partially covering the sun; yet, you can see the rays bursting from behind to provide us light (direction), warmth (love), and hope. So, that’s my encouragement for you today. Do not attempt to contain or hide the light within you…You can’t!

Be the sun that makes a positive change in someone’s life today!