What does a diamond symbolize in the world we live in today? Wealth? Power? The flaunting of a societal position or booming success? Does the size of the diamond increase with the intensity of the commitment? Is it a gauge that measures the potency of love?
My friends, I can say with a clear conscience that a diamond is none of those things to me, and trust me when I explain to you that I am a connoisseur of bling. I am drawn to all things that sparkle, whether it be tinsel on a Christmas tree or multi-colored, imitation gems on a bracelet.
And by the way, I am also mesmerized by rays of sunshine on still, black water and the dissipated, divine hues of a rainbow. I am enchanted by the various blues of a September sky and the deep yellow of a field saturated with dandelions.
Traditionally. June is the month for weddings. People of all ages spend hours designing the ideal ceremony to commemorate the bond of commitment. What takes days to plan is ended in the blink of an eye, and the true test of faith begins the moment the lights go off and the couple steps away from the fantasy and into reality. All of the bright lights, elaborate decorations, scrumptious food and carefully selected music are filed away – captured in photos, videos and memory. Trash cans are stuffed with all sorts of “bling” that has served its purpose well.
Life goes on, my friends and the only thing that matters is the validity of commitment and the integrity of the bond. At this point, the only sparkle that really counts is love. And whether you choose to wear a ring made of plastic or 18-karat gold, it matters not.
By now, you may wonder just how the diamond fits into all of this, and rightfully so. Whether it is a diamond chip or a three-carat, laser-edged, pure white stone, the diamond, to me, is the symbol of eternal love. It is a symbol, not a guarantee. The future of this glorious commitment, whether it is a legal document or a pledge from the soul, depends upon much more than the pomp and circumstance. A diamond is said to be the hardest and the strongest substance on the face of the earth, but there is nothing stronger than love. The diamond can be tucked away for centuries in a black velvet box, but eternal love, regardless of the form, never loses its “bling” or endurance.
Please stay safe and may we all remember to be kind.
Belinda Ouellette lives in Caribou with her Goldendoodle, Barney. You may email her at belindaouellette9@gmail.com.
