Diamonds

Fun fact: diamonds aren't actually rare. Diamonds have always been viewed as special, and they are, but not because there are only a few of them. Mining them hit full swing in the 1930 when the American stock market crashed. The De Beers company started seizing control of diamond mines and ultimately held a monopoly on diamonds until the 21st century. De Beers was also the company that populated the tradition of giving a fiancé a diamond ring. Even now, this company holds 35% of the world's diamond production. Diamonds are the most common gem in the world and today there are warehouses full of them waiting to be sold. The perceived rarity is only due to a conscious decision to restrict the market supply, playing on diamonds’ scarcity several hundred years ago. Of course, the tradition of diamond engagement rings lent to how special these jewels were considered, and helped the idea that they were rare.

So they aren't rare, but I believe that they are rather unique. Just think about how they are formed: stuck under tons of volcanic pressure at really high temperatures for a long time. And the result is magnificent. One of the toughest materials in the world, and it still looks wonderful. God uses plain rock in a glorious way. When the pressure in your life is building up, when you can't see the positive outcome, think about this. God has a plan. A wonderful plan. And the end result will be more beautiful than you can imagine. Every so often, you should pause and reflect on who you are now and the progress you have made in the last section of your life. It will give you the hope you need to keep going, keep fighting, keep growing. 

When we are under pressure, God is making diamonds. Much of the world still holds on to the belief that diamonds are rare. And yet, you are a diamond. Created beautifully by God. And He continues His work in you every moment, especially when the pressure is high. Don't hide from the world. Don't let the world think that people that shine out are scarce. They shouldn't be. We should shine like diamonds for the whole world to see. Don't hide, fight your way into the open, be seen, and show the world God's magnificent work in you.