Claiming Our Gifts
Have you ever felt like you had to "hide" your gifts, or talents? Was it because you didn't think they were good enough; or, perhaps you knew they were but didn't want to show off? The male peacock reminds us to offer our gifts with carefree abandon...we don't chastise him for his brilliance, but instead, are in awe. The same is true when we fully express that, within ourselves.
Marianne Williamson said, "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure." Depending on which generation you are part of will determine just how well this coat fits. Most from the Boomer or X generations are likely to recall how they were raised, to be seen, not heard. The adults had ultimate authority and often ruled with an iron fist, regardless of right or wrong. The Boomers had to accommodate the vast influx of children vying for limited resources. They were about sharing and equality. The Xers were the latchkey kids, the first generation with the majority of both parents in the workforce. The Millennial generation have been told how wonderful they are, that they can do anything. They all get ribbons and trophies and awards for things the previous generations called "expectations" by their parents and teachers. So, if everyone gets awards then does anyone really stand out?
In any of these scenarios, each generation is afraid to show their true colors because bragging isn't appropriate, or we're just trying to take care of ourselves, or with the Gen Y, everyone's great so no one is.
What if the peacock teaches us that it's not about competition, but about standing in full expression, your truth?This is different than competition and winners and losers, this is about becoming your best self, constantly evaluating yourself against the mirror and finding ways to step more deeply into who you truly are, without fear because no one else loses...no, instead, we give others permission to do likewise, to evolve and grow, and heal and spread our massive wings.
