The other night I lit a new candle for the first time. I was enjoying the raspberry & persimmon scent more than I originally anticipated, as I typically favor more fresh and mild scents like white tea, jasmine, or lavender. I decided to turn off the lights to unwind for bed by candlelight – 10/10 recommend.
I was surprised. My room significantly lit up more than I expected. I was amazed at how bright my room was from the one tiny flame.
It is commonly noted how only a little bit of toxicity can bring down a group. But, this notion often overshadows the capability of goodness from one person or one small action.
I am assuming that I am not the only person that faces discouragement at times. “How much of a difference can I make? I’m only one person, after all,” I think to myself.
My candle serves as a testimony to counter my doubt – there doesn’t need to be a huge fire to light up a room.
A little flame is not so little after all; the flame is strong, bright, and has the capability to bring out features in others that had previously gone unrecognized. It only takes one spark to make a difference.
We each have the power to be that little flame that lights up the room. And we know that together, our flames do create that fire. The fire that shapes our industry to be inviting, inclusive, and accountable.
We all have the spark that’s needed, so let’s start a fire.
Mattie is a CFI/CFII and a Graduate Research Assistant at Auburn University, where she is pursuing an M.Ed. in Adult Education. She enjoys drinking her morning coffee, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.