Image courtesy of http://www.ayoungertheatre.com
A few months ago my husband asked a probing question:
What would you do if you woke up famous?
Like everyone-knows-my-face-and-name famous, I questioned.
Yep, he responded, like that.
He was intent on an answer. And I was quiet, searching for one. Then.
I’d be lying if I said I don’t want success. That I don’t want to be recognized for talents I believe I have. But famous?? That is entirely different.
Contrary to what I may seem, I am an introverted person. I love flying under the radar, allowed to notice and not be noticed. I love peace and quiet. I love being with myself–wholly–even in the dark moments when I’m skillfully negotiating the craggy peaks of my heart’s hurt. I love being allowed that luxury, the luxury of figuring out who I am without the noise of others telling me who they think I am.
Surely, that doesn’t mean there aren’t those in my life who try to make their truth my own. There are. But at least they know me. They aren’t complete strangers who take issue with the way I cut my hair, what I choose to eat, or worse…who attack my sacred personhood because of something they read or watched on t.v.
So that famous??
No. Thank. You.
Then last week, while driving to meet a girlfriend for lunch, I was heart hit by a song on the radio:
I don’t need my name in lights
I’m famous in my Father’s eyes
Make no mistake
He knows my name
I’m not living for applause
I’m already so adored
It’s all His stage
He knows my name
As I drove through tears, I realized I’m already famous to a precious and cherished few. They know my name and more than that…they know my heart. That is why the song moved me. Because it spoke to one of my deepest truths: on any given day, I’d prefer to be Known than known of.
That is my heart’s scripture. Today. Tomorrow. And forever.
I don’t know what the next few years will bring. And I don’t know where my talents will take me, but it doesn’t matter. I am Known. And that knowing is more fame than I ever dreamed of.
29 thoughts on ““I don’t need my name in lights””
Jane Foard Thompson
Dani, that was a valid question from your husband, given your talent. And your conclusion is heart satisfying peace. To be known,
to be loved by Love.
No other way.
No fame or prestige can touch it.
Dani
Oh, Jane, thank you for your kindness and friendship. Both mean the world to me.
With heart,
Dani
Robin S. Kent
Wonderfully expressed. Thanks for saying it so well.
Dani
Thank you, Robin.
Truly.
With blessings,
Dani
mkk11304@comcast.net
Very good one, T!Sent from XFINITY Connect Mobile App
Dani
Yay, you!! You commented.
Thanks, Mom 🙂
charissagrace
your name…your heart…to those of us whom you have lavished your love and care upon, you are already famous.
ever and always grateful…friend.
love, charissa
PS; what a timely post for me, the part about:
“those in my life who try to make their truth my own”.
Having just undergone such an invasion, the contrast between that and your life in mine is palpable and real beyond real.
❤
Dani
I know the paparazzi of your heart are the kind that See. And I am blessed with That fame. And no other.
With love,
Dani
charissagrace
omg…They! They are the Paparazzi of my heart! LOVE IT!
❤
StephanieJane
I love this, and I feel exactly the same way. I think it would be incredibly difficult to handle THAT kind of famous. And like you, I’m an introvert who relishes quiet spaces shared with loved ones and a healthy dose of alone time. I couldn’t handle interacting with strangers on a constant basis, especially strangers who are critiquing without knowing who I am inside. Like you, it is enough for me to be Known by our Creator and by the people who know me best. I love your heart, thanks for sharing it with us!
Dani
Thank you for your kindness and encouragement, StephanieJane. It is an incredible blessing to know my words echo more than my own experience.
With heart,
Dani
Jenae G
Awesome truth that should be written on the hearts of all who have breath.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us all. You are loved and we are blessed to know you!
Dani
Thank you, sweetie ❤
slfuchs
Indeed, Dani, you are! Such an important lesson. I am still trying to learn it. Thank you for reminding me and all of us of “the difference between that which is real and enduring and that which is fleeting and vain.” (Shabbat Manual UAHC)
Dani
Stephen,
Thank you for taking the time to comment and share part of your truth.
You are famous in Those halls, my friend. And one day, I hope that’s enough.
Until then and always,
Dani
catterel
I can only say YES!
Dani
Thank you kindly, lovely Catherine.
With blessings,
Dani
MamaMickTerry
“As I drove through tears, I realized I’m already famous to a precious and cherished few. They know my name and more than that…they know my heart. That is why the song moved me and why I was left a puffy mess. Because it spoke to one of my deepest truths: on any given day, I’d prefer to be Known than known of.”
We DO know your heart and what a blessing that is.
xo
Dani
Thank you, Michelle, for the blessings of you and your friendship.
With heart,
Dani
Sherry Beren
Beautifully written. And I love you. I hope you know how many people truly care about you! I have a book I would like to rrecommend; What YOU think of Me Is None of My Business. The author’s name is Terry Cole-Whitaker. It is about your inner path and Self- fulfillment It is true, you are already famous!
Dani
Sherry, thank you for the lovely comment and for the book recommendation. I will surely look into it, and hope you know I count myself blessed as your friend.
May we sojourn in pain briefly and seek truth eternally.
❤ Dani
charissagrace
Hey Sis…if you do look it up, let me know if it is something I should look into? If you dare? LOLOLOL!!!!!!
Dani
I will and yes…I dare.
charissagrace
❤ ❤ ❤
Meredith
I love the photo & the message, & the song.
Dani
Thank you so much, Meredith.
All are appreciated.
With heart,
Dani
hya21
Absolutely beautiful. I agree that the type of famous where everyone criticizes your choices because you are “out there” is not something that I would want either. What you are happy with is really the best kind.
Dani
What a lovely comment, Nadine.
Thank you for taking the time to read and comment.
Both are appreciated more than you know.
With heart,
Dani
Writing to Freedom
Beautifully expressed Dani. I can relate to not wanting the limelight! I’m happier writing, meditating, being in nature and encouraging others to find their greatness. Thanks for being part of my community. blessings, Brad