Tokens Of Appreciation
Seventy-four Swarovski crystals, eleven silver beads, one meter of clear monofilament and a small strand of satin ribbon carefully joined together creates a pendant that to me, represents sacrifice. The sacrifice I am referring to isn’t in making these precious pendants but rather in the service that has been rendered by others to my family and me during this past year’s uphill climb. Through their selfless actions and deeds our lives have been made brighter and lighter.
I liked the idea of making a token of appreciation that would also symbolize love and light. Crystals were chosen because of their amazing ability to take a single light source and refract it, spreading the light in many directions at the same time. Similarly, service never just affects one soul, but rather, shines into the lives of others through a single act.
On a satin ribbon carefully rolled up and placed within the center of these pendants I have written one single word which reflects what I feel that person has taught me through their unconditional acts of service. One dozen ribbons have been inscribed with one dozen single words of appreciation to be placed in one dozen hearts and given to those of whom they were intended for. These words are gifts given to me and are forever embedded into my heart just as these ribbons are embedded within these hearts, and if they were to be un-scrolled would reveal such treasures as: Strength, Knowledge, Humor/Laughter, Wisdom, Love, Sacrifice, Caring, Cheer, Patience, Friendship, Hope and Courage.
So, whenever these hearts are seen I would wish that they will be a reminder and a symbol of how others have let their light so shine.
In Others’ Words:
Teach this triple truth to all: A generous heart, kind speech,
and a life of service and compassion are the things which
renew humanity.
~ Buddha~