Fertile soil, level plains, easy passage across the mountains, coal, iron, and other metals imbedded in the rocks, and a stimulating climate, all shower their blessings upon man. 

Ellsworth Huntington

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When I dropped Matthew off at college, he was a clean-shaven, somewhat nervous young man. When I picked Matthew from his first year at BC, he was a caveman! A confident, happy caveman who had successfully completed his first year at BC. He transitioned smoothly, connected with his roommate (they will room again next year), navigated the complexities of living on his own (laundry), and made an incedible circle of kind, respectful friends. John and I, as always, feel extremely blessed.

Matthew said he had been considering his symbol while at school. He had narrowed it down to a few and finally chose his piece of Uvite, a mineral that forms unique crystal formations. He had picked the uvite out at a local fair when he was about eleven. I asked Matthew about this choice and he said, “You have your own rock collection and you used to give one to me.”

It’s true. I have a collection of gemstones and minerals. I pick them up when I see them for sale or sometimes I purposely seek them out at a local store. In addition to simply enjoying their beauty, I like the symbolism that each one represents. One time mom gave me cool necklace with a piece of Flourite wrapped in wire. The healing properites of flourite are peace, bliss, and calming. They say the stone picks the person. Thank you, Mom.

When I asked Matthew why he chose his piece of uvite he responded, “You used to give us rocks before tests and stuff.” He said it was a cool thing that I did for him and he wanted to return the favor. Again, it’s true. When he was especially nervous before a test (ACT) I would choose a few stones for him to put in his pocket. They always seemed to match perfectly with what he needed in the moment. Matthew said that the idea popped into his head and after looking up the meaning of uvite, it seemed to “match how you’ve been feeling about your trip.”

This is what Matthw discovered about uvite: diminishes fears, promotes self-confidence, awareness to reality (so I can “take it all in”), enhances fortitude, and has a grouding quality. Wow! What more could I ask for?

Matthew, thank you for your thoughtful symbol. It touches me that you have asked me about the trip often and are sensitive to how I am feeling about it. It doesn’t surprise me, though, because your sensitivity to others and your genuine concern for the well-being of others is one of your greatest strengths. When I told you I was nervous about leaving you all for so long, you responded that you thought “it was good for me,” and that it is “important that you do things on your own.” Again, true. Thank you for your insight and reminding me of this, Matthew. You chose uvite for yourself wisely. It has definitely done its job. I will carry your support, excitement, and encouragement (as well as your uvite) along my Way.

Note: Photo of Matthew, me, and Gasson Hall at Boston College taken by John Kettlewell