Hello %FIRSTNAME%,

It occurred to me very recently, that I have spent my entire life navigating people trying to dampen, well, ME! My personality. My energy.

Comments such as:

What are you on?

Geez, your a bit energetic aren't you!

Why are you so happy?

On and on it goes.....

Finally at 46 years of age it occurs to me that the problem is not with me but with the other person. They are uncomfortable with my level of happiness. Maybe its a learned behavior but I have heard the above words my ENTIRE life. So instead of congratulating me on my bright smile or endless energy the easiest thing for them to do is dampen me down to whats comfortable for them.

I get it. I don't like it but I get it.

The thing I am reminded by these experiences is words have so much power. Power over you and power over others if they let you (which i have). This is another opportunity in life to think before I speak whether it to be myself or otherwise.

And here's why I think its so important: when said, the words you read at the beginning of the email make me feel ashamed, embarrassed and belittled.

Words have power.

When we speak them to ourselves or others. And, as famously said in a Spider-man stories, with great power comes great responsibility.

By writing this piece I am reminded to be aware of how I am speaking to those around me and what I say to myself. I don't ever want to steal anyone's sunshine including my own intentionally or unintentionally.

I guess we never really stop learning or growing!

See you on the mat,

Tracy