“This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, let it shine, let it shine...”
 
Such a simple statement that most people probably first heard when they were kids... I heard it just last Sunday and my heart will never be the same. It once again confirmed that some of the greatest things in life are so simple. Yet the simple things in life are sometimes the hardest to follow. We all have gifts we are blessed with. It is our choice as to whether we will let our little light shine. When circumstances in our lives try to blow out the light, we still are left with the choice as to whether or not to let it shine.
 
I have this friend (I’ll refer to him as Joe) who is one of the most wonderful/brilliant human beings I have ever met. His eyes sparkle with sincerity and love. If I needed him to drive five hours in the middle of the night to come change my flat tire, he would. He would because his heart is filled with kindness, humility and grace. Joe is a joy to his wife, children, family, and friends, most of the time.
 
When Joe plays cash or tournament poker successfully, he is the most generous man in the world. He’s a big tipper, dealers, servers and cocktail waitresses adore him. His fellow players really enjoy having him at their table. When he loses however, his demeanor shifts, drastically. He forgets to say please and thank you to the players and employees at the casino. He rudely tosses his cards when he mucks his hands. He curses under his breath. It’s as though he’s trying to pick a fight with someone. The saddest part though, is when he gets home and treats his unsuspecting wife poorly. His once sparkly and loving eyes have turned dark. Joe doesn’t even realize the damage he’s causing his relationship.
 
The feeling of loss is never pleasant. Especially when one loses things they should not have risked in the first place. I myself have turned into a total bitch when losing. I look back at my behavior with shame. No amount of money or “success” is worth my character, self respect, or class. Now that I’ve learned to place a comfortable limit on what I’m willing to risk when I play, even if I leave it all at the table, I will not leave my dignity there.
 
My Papa once told me that the key to life is balance. He said “even if you eat too many apples, which are healthy for you, you will get sick.” I do my best to balance my game and my life. I may slip and fall sometimes but I always have the courage forgive myself and get back up and try again. I think of the Olympic figure skater who has spent his entire life for that one performance. And finally, when that moment arrives, he falls. He falls but always gets back up, composes himself and continues.
 
I’m writing this message for all who play the game. I’m writing to the people who neglect and lose their health, families, and friends. I’m writing to those who sacrifice their self respect, self control, and most importantly their self love. Stop it! The power lies within you; you are the light of the world. It’s your choice; make the right choice and shine. Let your light shine, let it shine, let it shine. Sing with me...
 
It’s never too late to become that person you always knew you can be.
 
Changing the world one sentence at a time, Jennifer Matiran believes the pen is, and always will be, mightier than the sword. Contact her with questions, comments or interesting material at matiran@sbcglobal.net.