This has been quite a year of change and personal growth for me. After a rather painful end to a long-term relationship earlier in the year, I was left questioning what I thought I knew about other people, who I was and where I was going. Although I still experience moments of doubt and sadness, I’m finally feeling mostly human again and am back to work full force (as much as my day-job will allow) in my studio making jewelry which has been invigorating and therapeutic.
This sterling silver and copper necklace was inspired by the amazing year I’ve had. The lowest lows were buoyed with the loving support of close friends and family. Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who allowed me to cry on their shoulder (or in their phone), fed me, hugged me, entertained me, encouraged me, sat with me and who just let me be where I was for as long as I needed.
Each of the “patches” on the heart represents part of my healing process. ‘Truth’ could reference truth in relationships, which is essential for building and maintaining trust, but here I meant the truth about who I am as a woman and who I’m meant to be. My break-up left me feeling that I was ‘not enough’ yet ‘too much’ and utterly replaceable. I am without a doubt a work in progress and hope that I always will be, but my renewed interest in a relationship with God has opened my eyes to the possibility, that I am beloved, worth fighting for, an irreplaceable part of a much larger story and enough just as I am.
I had completed the pendant but decided afterwards to add the wings because I wanted to imagine my heart not as just a patched up survivor but as flying strong and free.
They say time heals all wounds, but time only lessens the sting. True healing comes from God, if we allow it, and through community and friendships. It comes when we allow ourselves to truly mourn our losses and celebrate the many great things in our lives.
