A number of things can keep women from recognizing or experiencing their own light. Some happen suddenly: the onset of panic attacks, a husband’s accident on a sunny Sunday, humiliating false allegations on the job. And some are more gradual: a mysterious life-threatening illness, a failing business, being a “good girl” and putting others first to the point that you never learn to make your own choices. In this collection of personal essays, you’ll meet 13 women who emerged from those challenges and many others when they discovered a strong, steady beam that not only illuminates their soul but radiates from them to light the path for others. From finding an unexpected love of caring for lighthouses after a painful divorce to turning a love of dogs into a unique second career, each woman has found her place in the world. Perhaps you feel like your inner light has dimmed or been snuffed out—or you’ve never glimpsed it to begin with. Perhaps you wonder if you’ll ever have the peace and confidence that allows your authentic self to glow. Or perhaps you simply love reading about women whose light arose out of darkness and led them home to their true selves. Settle in and read their stories. Let them inspire you to find your own light and let it shine!