Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our Light, not our Darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you NOT to be?
You are a child of God. (or insert appropriate deity here) Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God (or whoever) that is within us.
It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.
And as we let our own Light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

Nelson Mandela
1994 Inaugural Speech

Just a few words on this quote, I came across it at the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, where I volunteer. I work with quite a few HIV positive people and other people who are ill. It is posted in the kitchen area for all to see. I think the words are rather inspiring in a place that constantly inspires me with its positive attitude and courage. Ok, ok, I don't want to get too heavy here so I'll stop...