“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.”

—Matthew 5:14

I still remember the day of my catechism. The details of the ceremony are blurry; however, what has remained with me throughout my life is the moment afterward. As we arrived home, my father stood at the front door of our house and read aloud the scripture written for me in the front of my hymnal: “You are the light of the world.”

That phrase pierced my heart. Even as a child, I sensed its truth: I must never let my light go dim.

Over the years, I’ve come to see how each of us carries this same truth. We are here for a divine purpose. No one else has been created exactly like you. Just as fingerprints, eyes, and voices are unique, so too are your gifts. Some may sing, others paint. Some provide healing, others provide laughter. Some are called to nurture gardens, others to nurture souls. Each light is essential. None shines brighter or weaker in God’s eyes.

I once had a friend whose mother gave her a beautiful image of love. She said, “My love for you is like a candle. I may light all these other candles—each one representing your brothers and sisters—but the flame of your candle never diminishes. Each candle burns just as brightly, and my love for you is the same.”

Isn’t that a powerful image?

We are all like candles flickering in the night. Together, we bring warmth, hope, and guidance in a sometimes shadowed world. We may never fully know how our words, our kindness, or our courage to touch others—yet rest assured, they do.

Your light matters. It cannot be hidden unless you choose to cover it. Do not allow the criticism, fear, or doubt of others to snuff out your flame. Stand tall. Shine bright. Be who you are created and born to be.

The world does not need a copy of someone else—it needs your authentic glow.

This week, I invite you to ask yourself: Where can I let my light shine?