I wrote that manta 10+ years ago when I first began making jewelry for Milk Velvet Pearls. At that time, my kids were still young, and I felt as if my faith had gotten me through the darkest of times, and that Jesus could be trusted for all the days ahead. It was hard to remember the pain I had once felt, or to imagine that more painful times would be on the horizon.  But as time has passed, and new chapters of life have unfolded, I have been repeatedly (and painfully) reminded of why I began this ministry.  I will forever need a physical reminder that God is with me, and that His plans are good.  With great love comes great grief. 

It's back to school time, and I've recently added some new cross pearl jewelry to the shop. The orders that I have gotten lately have been mostly large cross pearl necklaces for mothers, daughters, and grandmothers - all revolving around children going off to school. It's telling me that many of us are going through the same thing now ~ immense pride with the gut-wrenching grief of letting our children go. 

Queen Elizabeth II once said, "Grief is the price of love." and I am feeling that strongly now. Our youngest daughter is about to leave for school again, and I am remembering when she first left 2 years ago. She had decided that she wanted to graduate high school early, and then pursue college in England. We were so proud, and at the same time heartbroken. Tears and grief would overtake me unexpectedly, and overwhelm me at the most random times and places. I'd be at a coffee shop, or walking down the street- and then BAM, out of nowhere- gushing, out-of-control, tears. It felt like she was so far away, and that the void she left behind could never be filled.  My neighbor reminded me that it doesn't matter if your child moves to the other side of the ocean, or the other side of the street - mothers experience great loss when a child leaves home. 

It took time, and trust, and great faith.... and eventually things got easier. My husband and I got closer, God ministered to us, and we got to watch her grow, make new friends, and be loved by more people. But now, after a whole summer of having her home again, I can feel the pangs of grief coming to the surface as I anticipate her leaving. 

The good news is that  I know "All things work together for good of those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28) and that I can trust Jesus, again, and forever.  And so, it is my great honor to come along beside you, and to make jewelry as a reminder for us to be faithful at all times. I have been touched by orders women have ordered for themselves (as mothers and grandmothers whose children and grandchildren are going away to school). And most especially by a young woman who purchased a cross pearl necklace to give to her mom when she leaves for her study abroad program next week. (Isn't that the sweetest gift idea?) 

As for me, I am wearing my pearls, and praying into each piece of jewelry that I make.  May we all be reminded that we can trust Jesus to love, support and sustain us now~ and know that He will protect our children, and use every experience for their good. 

Happy August With Love,

Sarah

PS: Looking for some jewelry to remind you of good and beauty?

Check out these new pieces.

(Available in gold-filled and sterling silver)

(Available in 3 pearl colors, and in 3 sizes)

(Available in gold-filled and sterling silver)