Sometimes the smallest things are the ones with the most sentimental value. Recently, I went shopping at a local mall. On my way there, I had called my friend, and during the conversation, I shared that I'm all dressed up to go run errands; something I don't often do. But today, I needed to lift my spirits. When you look good, you feel good. đđŸ
One of the pieces I wore was a cute Jamaican-made pair of earrings. They're made primarily of paper but you could never tell, because they look like wood, beads, or some other sturdy material. I was fascinated the first time I saw them at the Things Jamaican store. Of course, I went overboard and bought about 6 pairs in various colours. Buyer's remorse set in when I got home, because did I really need to buy 6?! But they were all so different and pretty, I told myself. And if you know me, you know I love jewellery of various types. đ
I had reached store number 7 on my errands when I realised one earring was missing. Instant devastation, as I had thoughts that I may never find it in that big mall, and worst of all, sometimes artisans never make the same item twice. If you know, you know. đ©
Nevertheless, I decided to try anyway, and began to retrace my steps from the 7th store back to the first, along the walkways, the asphalted parking lot, and inside each store.
By the time I had reached the 6th store, I had given up, because there's no way I'm gonna find that little earring, and it was a ridiculous idea searching in the first place. This loss only added to the challenging day I was having, and at this point I was just done and ready to go home!
I collected the Chinese meal I had ordered about 45 minutes before and was heading towards the exit when I glanced to my right and there she was on the floor...my little earring.
Uncontrollably, I shrieked, "Oh my God!!!". A gentleman sitting in a corner seemingly ready to spring into action, looked at me like a damsel in distress. Perhaps he thought the food had spilled or something. I said, "It's just my earring. It was lost, and I can't believe I'm seeing it here. Please pick it up for me." I immediately dropped it into my purse and made my way to the car smiling from ear to ear. đ
These earrings aren't made of precious metals. But they are a rich part of our Jamaican heritage, handmade with recycled paper (and natural materials) in an array of beautiful colours - paper beaded jewellery by JA News Jewels. [I captured some of their pieces from their Instagram pages.]
As I sat in my car, I basked in being reunited with my earring. And it got me thinking about life in general. I walked around that mall in search of a single earring, and I found it waiting for me when I least expected - when I had given up.
We are on the cusp of a new year. As you pursue your goals, if you feel like giving up, at least keep your eyes wide open. May some of the things you desire find their way to you.
Happy New Year! All the best for 2024 đ»
One Love â€ïž
I am Suzette Campbell
Note: Originally published on January 19, 2024
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