EPISODE SUMMARY:

When we began homeschooling, I wanted to set an objective for our journey. It was totally unknown territory, and I knew there was much to learn about home educating. The decision was as exhilarating as it was unnerving. And that was where today’s guest entered our world. We wouldn’t meet her for 16 years; however, her words hung in our classroom as a reminder that there really wasn’t anything to fear…absolutely nothing. In addition to providing a foundation for lifelong learning, the words on my homemade poster became my intention for the time Nia and I would spend together.

Our school motto came from author, spiritual thought leader and activist Marianne Williamson. The excerpt can be found in her book A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of “A Course in Miracles”.

“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. 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 are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s 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.”

Along our journey, in homeschooling and life, we faced the challenges implied within Marianne’s words. There were times when our lights were shining so joyously and brightly that others attempted to destroy what we were endeavored to create. Sometimes we were even unjustly isolated. We were shaken but stood firm.

During difficult times, I would remind my daughter that insecurity can on occasion cause people to behave poorly. Sometimes she understood. At other times she felt ostracized and sad. Nevertheless, she knew that for us playing small wasn’t an option and pushed through. For me, every time was heartbreaking.

It wasn’t always easy for either of us. Yet the power that comes from understanding who we truly are and what we came here to do can not only sustain us, it can also result in the ability to live more authentically and fearlessly. It even emboldened us to create the Real Talk with Deb and Nia podcast, which we sincerely hope liberates others.

While we are grateful for Marianne Williamson the author, we remain equally intrigued by the fact that she “walks the talk”. Like all of us, she had to negotiate her humanity and this world to find her true self. She had to release old thoughts, behaviors, and ideas to become the Marianne who embodies a love that has resulted in a body of work that has positively affected millions. Her philanthropic projects and social activism are awe inspiring.

What we appreciated most about meeting the icon whose words had inspired us was the opportunity to chat with Marianne Williamson the woman. Her warmth and loving energy are palpable, her purpose is passionate, and her presence is liberating.

Our conversation ran the gamut. From fear and love to racial unrest and atonement. We chatted with a familiarity that often comes when like-minded souls connect, share openly and listen intently. They are the kinds of conversations that inspire thought and ignite change. It is our joy and privilege to share our tea table conversation with all of you.

No spoilers on this one. You’ll just have to listen. 😉

Savor the “Tea”,

Deb (& Nia)