Shattered.
Broken.
Discarded.
A purpose had been served and it was no longer important. Cast aside.
For years it just tossed in the ocean until settling off the shores of an Island where it lay in the peacefulness of the waves. Unsure of its purpose, it lay there hoping and reflecting color when the sun would shine upon it.
A lady walked the shore. She was broken. Shattered emotionally. Felt discarded. In her walks she noticed the different colors of glass and decided to collect them.
Now the lady had a purpose. The broken glass was treated to many baths and polishing and then set into a necklace.
Miles away another lady yearned for the ocean. She found herself landlocked and unable to travel. Thanks to Zoom she met the lady who lived on this island and soon learned of the jewelry being created.
The necklace was bought and when it arrived the new owner waited for the best celebration before she wore it.
After many months, she found herself back at the ocean and she knew this was the moment. She removed the necklace from the box and hung it around her neck. Then she strolled out to the beach.
I am that second lady. Now when I am missing my ocean, I take out the necklace and wear it. And when I do I remember that the ocean does exist. I also remember that we all have a beauty to share. (To find out more about this beautiful “ocean jewelry”, click here.)
The discarded bottle collected by the broken woman has brought beauty to the landlocked lady who wore it back at the ocean. And now even though the ocean remains far away, it is very close to me when I reach for it.
The verse of Isaiah 61:3 comes to mind:
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.
This is what I want for everyone – to feel that connection. To know they have a purpose. That even though perhaps once discarded they can be restored and shine once again.
Redeemed.