A evocative and clear metaphor: the word lighthouse is the perfect way to describe the positive impact that some people are able to have on the world around them, helping others without asking for anything in return. The lighthouse does not judge, it does not discuss the reasons why a sailor ended up too close to the rocks, it does not concern itself with his social or financial status. The lighthouse has only one mission: to protect the traveller and lead him to safety. Becoming a lighthouse and having a positive impact on the world does not involve being rich or powerful, since anyone can become a source of inspiration and hope if they want to, as the stories of so many "everyday heroes" demonstrate.
Just like those built at sea, the key traits of "human lighthouses" are humility and consistency: unwavering in all conditions, they illuminate the path to safety while inviting us to gain a better understanding of ourselves. These people are not naive idealists, “from another planet”, but normal people who have been able to find meaning in the adversities they themselves have encountered, and are willing to use their strength to help others overcome those same hardships. Their positive impact does not come from power and wealth, but from the dangers and challenges they have faced, and the belief that others can benefit from their experience.
To test the power of the lighthouse effect, all we have to do is look honestly at our own lives to realise that we have experienced many changes and continue to do so as time passes, and most of these changes are based on social interactions. Most of our meaningful experiences are the fruit of connections with other people, connections that can be opportunities to receive, as well as to offer help and support. Anyone can be a lighthouse, the only skill required to do so is to be able to open up to the world sincerely so that you can give and receive trust.
