Last week, I asked my students if they ever feel the need to dim their light—to hold back or hide parts of themselves just to fit in (a fitting question, as we experience darker days). The response from my older students was striking.
So many shared how uncomfortable it can feel to "show off." One sophomore, excelling in a class with seniors, hesitates to let her skills shine. A girl who is incredibly talented at baseball finds herself downplaying her abilities around other girls. Another, a naturally fast runner, insists she’s “not that good.” Why do they do this? To make others feel comfortable—at the expense of their own brilliance.
And here's the kicker: my youngest students, those under age seven, didn’t even understand what it meant to dim their light. They haven’t yet learned to hold themselves back.
This response from the littlest ones proved a powerful point: dimming our light isn’t natural. This was learned. A learned silence instilled by society, practiced by generations of women taught that brilliance is a threat, that taking up space is selfish—a reminder of a suppressed radiance yearning to be set free.Here’s to letting our light shine boldly, loudly, and unapologetically, no matter how uncomfortable it may feel—and to preserving that light for the little ones already tapped into its power!
Gratefully,
Amna
P.S. One of our students shared something really meaningful with me, and I thought you’d appreciate it too:
Dance has always been my passion and thanks to your dedication and expertise, I’ve been able to refine my moves in ways I never thought possible.
Your coaching has been nothing short of inspiring. Your patience,attention to detail and genuine passion for dance shine through in every session.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me and helping me realize my potential as a dancer.
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