What It Really Means to "Be the Glitter"

A reflection on showing up, spreading joy, and making inspiration stick

Author

Laura Paisley Beck
July 02, 2025

Hello Beautiful Humans

This week I've been reflecting on what it truly means to "be the glitter" - especially after receiving a most heartwarming recognition from OPEN Foundation Madison. Being featured in their newsletter as a "Storyteller and Community Superstar" made me pause and think: What does it actually mean to show up as glitter in this world?

Table of Contents

Glitter Shows Up

As OPEN beautifully showcased it in their newsletter today, being the glitter means showing up authentically wherever you are - "whether it's a stadium, a market, or a classroom." You too can light up a room just by being your true self.

My podcast guest, Amber Fourman, loved the tagline so much she had to repeat it: "Be glitter. Spread glitter in the world." When she said that, she emphasized that being glitter is about being impossible to ignore in the best way possible.

Amber also shared her vision for consistent authenticity: "This year of all years, pride doesn't need to be a day. It doesn't need to be a month for our community. We need a pride year... we need to let that rainbow shine throughout the rest of the year."

Glitter Sticks

The magic of glitter is that it gets everywhere. Once it's there, it's nearly impossible to remove (as anyone who's ever used body glitter knows!). That's exactly what authentic inspiration does - it sticks to people long after the moment passes.

When you show up as your authentic self, when you spread kindness and joy, even through talk on tough topics, that energy transfers to others. They carry it with them. They pass it on. We get to spread that inspiration that sticks.

Manning a resource table at the Sun Prairie Pride Fest last Saturday was filled with curious questions and warm conversations. Thanks to everyone who signed up for this newsletter and expressed interest in my book (available at A Room of Own’s Own bookstore).

Glitter Celebrates Year-Round

Another guest, Rachel Cruz, shared something profound about Pride that connects to this glitter philosophy: "You don't realize pride isn't about being gay. It's about being inclusive and it's about being diverse, and it's about how beautiful we all are as an individual. You have to love yourself. You're amazing. There'll only ever be one of you, you know?"

That's what being the glitter means - letting your sparkle shine consistently, in every season. Pride fills the whole year. Joy belongs in every day. Authenticity is your gift to give whenever you choose.

The Ripple Effect

OPEN Foundation recognized me as someone who "embodies the OPEN mission in action" - as "a connector, a cheerleader, and a community-builder." But here's the thing: that's what happens when you are inspired by others on a consistent basis. You evolve into a force for connection.

When you show up authentically, you give others permission to do the same. When you intentionally amplify the voices and powerful stories from misunderstood amazing people, you create spaces where others feel safe to find joy in their authentic selves too. When you talk about tough topics with giggles, somehow light glimmers where it used to be dark.

Your Glitter Matters

Whether you're:

  • Standing up for inclusion in your workplace

  • Supporting a friend through a difficult time

  • Creating art that reflects your truth

  • Simply choosing to smile at a stranger

You're being the glitter. You're making inspiration stick.

The world needs your particular sparkle. You have it in you simply because you're here - a living, breathing human who has overcome obstacles and is still seeking inspiration. You are beautiful. Your differences and unique perspectives transform struggles into wisdom. Your story matters.

This Week's Writing Prompt

Write about a time when someone's authentic joy or sparkle made your day better. What did they do? How did it feel? How can you pass that feeling forward today?

Inclusive Communication Tip of the Week

When someone shares their authentic self with you, avoid 'I never would have guessed' and try 'I'm glad you felt comfortable sharing that with me.'

Why? The first focuses on how well they hid; the second celebrates their openness.

Glitter On

Look for one opportunity to be the glitter:

  • Share an authentic story

  • Offer genuine encouragement

  • Stand up for someone who needs support

  • Create something that brings joy

  • Simply show up as yourself

Remember: glitter gets everywhere, and that's exactly the point.

Keep sparkling!

Sending you lots of love,
Laura ✨

P.S. - Thank you to OPEN Foundation for seeing and celebrating the glitter in all of us. Organizations like this are changing workplaces and lives by creating spaces where authenticity is celebrated.

P.P.S. - Want more inspiration that sticks? Check out my latest podcast episodes where incredible guests share their own glitter moments.

What does "being the glitter" mean to you? Hit reply and let me know - I love hearing from you!