The Science of Sea Glass and Art of Life
by Jennifer Brown
Since I was a child I have regarded stained glass, especially with the Sun’s light gleaming through, a beautiful sight to behold. Adding color to everyday common glass and arranging the pieces in a way that symbolizes a story has always intrigued me. It is said that a picture speaks a thousand words.
A few years ago I became interested in creating mosaics … and discovered sea glass.
Worn by years in the salty waves and surf, sea glass is nature’s way of recycling man’s garbage, transforming discarded trash into a lovely beach gem that is used to make jewelry and art. A chemical reaction occurs between the glass and the salty water that changes the once clear fragment into a pitted, frosted appearance. The constant tumbling in the surf rounds the sharp, jagged edges. ‘Sea glass’ can be manufactured through a process within an hour or two and sold for quite a reasonable price at arts and craft stores, but does not have the authentic texture of true sea glass.
“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10
I reflect on how much we are like a piece of sea glass. We are broken through the trials of life, choices, and relationships. God’s word, the example of Christ, and the Holy Spirit are like the salty water and time renovating our brokenness into something authentically beautiful and valuable. Not valuable in a worldly sense, but for our Father’s kingdom.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17
Garbage cannot be changed into authentic sea glass without being in the proper environment. Unlike a piece of glass, we have the ability to choose who and what we surround ourselves with. We are gifted with the choice to pray for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength, and grace. Seeking His word and praying for His perfect will and plan for our life will lead us where we are meant to be.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33
Finding sea glass on the beach is not necessarily simple. You might accidentally happen upon a piece without looking. However, if you are intentional about what you search for, you’ll be surprised how many gems you can collect in an afternoon.
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
About Jennifer Brown
My friendship with Jennifer dates back to last century. She was my study buddy for all of our Biology classes in college. Not only is she one smart cookie, she can make a mean casserole. Two of the very first dishes I ever learned to cook were her recipes. She's a spirited teacher (lucky kids), a devoted wife and mother of two beautiful girls (lucky Doug and lucky girls) and she's a treasured friend (lucky me). Did I forget to mention that she loves Jesus? That's the most important part. She's one of the warmest people you could ever meet. So be glad that you've now met.
If you're interested in writing a guest post for "A Thursday for Your Thoughts" on God's Girlies send me an email. Tell us a story, lend us your thoughts, share a brilliant idea or a simple recipe. Or you can send me an email just to chat. Caring means sharing.
kristiburden@gmail.com