Renaissance

In addition to Renaissance referring to the revival of the arts, the word renaissance means a renewal or revival of life, interest and energy. The dictionary also equates renaissance with rebirth. I maintain that each new spark of hope or optimism is a renaissance of the human spirit.

In general, the word is applied to grand or overwhelming circumstances where a person experiences a great epiphany or perhaps inspires those happenings in others. Specifically, any of us can experience our own renaissance at any given moment when we choose to discard worry, anger or hatefulness. Any time we exchange our egocentric beliefs for understanding the world from the perspective of others, we are experiencing a renaissance of thought and empathy.

True, no one is likely to write your life story because of such renewals, but that does not diminish their importance. Each time we choose to embrace understanding, forgiveness and tolerance, we become a greater light in the lives of those around us--and to ourselves.

What experiences have you had or choices have you made that allowed you to enjoy a personal renaissance? If nothing recent comes to mind, perhaps today is the day. It can be, if you allow it to happen.