It's not a very pretty rock, the color goes from various shades of beige to shades of brown. It doesn't have a smooth surface, but is jagged with small dark brown spots and blemishes. There really isn't much to see that would make it presentable enough for a place of honor as a room decoration, yet it is one of my most prized pieces.

In the midwest, in another home, sits the other half of my rock. It was given by me to a friend for Christmas, along with a poem I wrote and cross-stitched. At the time, my friend was going through some personal difficulties, including divorce, and didn't have any self-worth.

I happened to find this rock by chance, but knew immediately I had to have it, and I had to share it with my friend. When I found it, it was already cut, and both pieces were laying cut side down. I picked up one piece, and my heart was overwhelmed with the beauty I saw when I turned it to look at the cut side.

The rock had a hollow in it, filled with little crystals that sparkled and shined. The area between the hollow and the outer edge (about 3/4" all the way around the inside) was filled with a delicate, lacy pattern. I was told it was Brazilian Agate, and that's the way they are "in the wild." I understand some are dyed on the inside, but this one was natural.

As I stood there and continued to look in awe at the rock, it occured to me it represents how we often look at ourselves and others. We see the outside, the unattractive, the tired or worn, and focus on that. While waiting inside is the true beauty.

My friend has given the poem and rock a place in their home, as I have in mine. I'm sure they also get the same, "Why do you have a rock sitting here for decoration?" I just smile as I pick up the rock, not yet letting them see the inside, and begin to talk about the beauty it contains. Just when they think I've totally lost it, I turn it over to reveal what was there all along.

This rock helps me put my judgement of others in proper perspective, and serves as a reminder that what is inside is what matters most.

Susan Stevens
Copyright 1999

Verse from "The Greatest Love Of All"

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
Show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride......
...The greatest love of all
Is easy to achieve
Learning to love yourself
It is the greatest love of all.

Home | Meet My Family | Meet My Sister | My Ancestry | My Bio | Growing Up | My Stories My Poems | Others Inspirational Stories | Quick Quips | Kids Korner | Missing Children Angel Moms On Earth | Circle of Friends | Heaven's Angels | Recipes | Midi Mall My ASCII Art | Summr's Graphics | My Office