"When the Waves Subside" Inspires a New Creation: Part II

As children, Heidi and I were always in pictures. We are from a family of amateur and aspiring photographers. It was fun to pose for the camera and even more fun when we got old enough to start taking pictures ourselves. All of these photos are priceless treasures and blessings to me and my family today.

With each project we've tackled as a family, we make sure to capture the process in pictures. Yesterday I introduced my idea and our plan to preserve our family's glass rock collection.  Are you wondering why I didn't just leave them in the jar to pass on to our children? Well, wonder no more.

In recent speaking engagements I've read When the Waves Subside: There is Hope aloud to the audience. The first time I was so choked up I had to pause, swallow, and pray to get through to the end without crying nonstop. It also helped me to appreciate the value of this book.

A book written as a gift to my parents so they know how strong and amazing I think they both are. Our glass rock collection consists of rocks found with Heidi during our childhood, while others are ones from trips to the lake with my husband and daughter. The tradition continues.

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The collection of these rocks sits on top of the bookshelves in our living room. Each time I looked at it, I thought, "How can I enjoy the beauty and reminder each of these rocks represent?" Yet no answer or idea...until the wee hours of one morning when God inspired me.

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Today, a small portion of our glass rocks are visible daily. Each a shining reminder of memories, hope, and love of family.

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I
n order to have the glass topping, it required two different liquids being slowly combined, then stirred. Once both in the cup, there was only minutes to mix and pour the mixture on top of the stones. It's all about timing.

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Do you notice the green and white stones bordering the outer edge of the tray? A soft reminder of my Mom's favorite color, green, and the white to remind me that through baptism, we are wiped clean, pure, and new.

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After the glass topping was added we noticed the rocks changing. The white turned clear. The sand dollars and star fish absorbed the liquid glass and changed color also. All but one glass rock remained it its assigned position.

Just like with God, no matter how hard we try to plan our lives, He has a plan for us. My design was altered by chemical reaction and a gentle force. I wish all I ever needed from God was a gentle push or slight reaction to reposition my plan to match His BUT sometimes, okay, often, I try to do it on my own ~ in my time, my strength, and my desires. Thank goodness He is always repositioning me, and loving me through the whole process.

In the Sonlight and upon close inspection you can see the stone that moved from it's original position. If you look closely, you can see the white rocks turned clear. If you lift the tray you'll get a work out because of its weight. Yet in the end, it is a work of beauty and perfection. A one of a kind, made with love, and a special addition to our house.

You are a one of a kind, made with a Father's love, and a special addition to the world. Remember, God doesn't make mistakes. We're not meant to be perfect, just obedient, willing to move.

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Do you have a memory to preserve? It's not too late...