A Diamond In The Rough

We all have those days, nights, or weeks that seem like the light at the end of the tunnel is just a speck. Let me tell you, it’s ok! As much as we (as humans) would like to be in control all the time, we have to find a happy and healthy median between the chaos and beauty of life. 

In today's society, you may feel like there's a heavyweight on your shoulders. You're not alone! We're easily overwhelmed by the nature of which our daily lives have taken. We have schedules, deadlines, jobs, kids, pets, elderly family to care for, bills, and an excessive amount, of what I like to call "junk", that we tend to carry on our shoulders. This constant stress engulfs our ability to function productively, thus, creating feelings of defeat and worthlessness. But what if I told you there are three keys that'll help unlock the straightforward constructs of life.

Question. Do you know the process and how long it takes a natural diamond to form? In brief, it takes the main element (carbon) to be placed under an immense amount of pressure and extreme temperatures. The entire process takes approximately 3 billion years! Now yes, technology has come a long way. A one-carat lab diamond takes about 7-10 days to grow, and about a month for a three-carat lab diamond. If you look at the chemical composition, though, you’ll find that there is a significant difference between the two. This variance increases the value of the natural diamond by about 30%!

I like to think of each of us as one of these beautifully crafted, precious, natural diamonds and apply it's creation to life in a way that was explained to me years ago by a mentor.

Numero uno! It is never too late! As long as your lungs are still inflating and your heart is still pumping, there is always room for improvement. We can never change the past but we can most certainly learn from it, and consciously choose to make wiser decisions for our future. Wrapping your head around this first important reality is key to a happier and more fruitful life.

I bet you're asking yourself: how does it apply to my life though? Referring back to the quick lesson on diamond formation, you are the diamond that was once in the rough! The experiences that have put you under pressure and trembled your core have shaped you over time. As you learn and grow, and experience life, you will continue to be shaped. The choices we made/make and the difficulties we faced/face all add up to the maturation that we can then pass on to younger generations.

So what's the second key? It doesn't happen overnight. The natural process takes time and adds value. Even with technological advances to speed up the development, when a lab-created diamond is "growing", there is a fine line to not rush because it'll cause the structural integrity of the diamond crystal to fracture. You see, the very impressions that make up the strong foundation cannot be overlooked or hurried.

Last, but not least, the third key. Refinement. This last step is never-ending and thank goodness for that. Striving to be the very best version of yourself is, what I believe, the point of life. Some of you may have had a very difficult upbringing or had experiences that you feel have defined you. Let me remind you that although they may have left scars, visible or not, you still have a choice! It is never too late. Generational "curses" can be broken. Trauma can be overcome. Life is a journey to enjoy! The good and the unfortunate you learned from. One adventure to the next. We don't know what the future holds in store for us exactly but make sure that when the time comes, your last impression and shining legacy is one that brightens the world and leaves the hearts of those who know you, sparkling. Live in the moment! Live passionately!


Let me know in the comments your thoughts on these three keys.

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