The sun beams good morning to me, peeking from behind the pinnacle of Bell Rock. I’m peering out my bedroom loft window, full from the anticipation of another glorious sunrise in the desert of Sedona, Arizona, on the outskirts near Red Rock State Park. I stretch before beginning my early meditation ritual. Breathing slowly and deeply, I can feel my aura soar. I’m preparing for a new day serving at the Natural Vibes Specialty Shop, owned and operated by my parents, Dank and Moonbeam.
The fragrance of eucalyptus wafts in the gentle desert breeze as I pull my red jeep with “Life is Good” printed on the spare tire cover into the parking lot. Red rocks loom in the distance, but my parent’s shop is a haven of green meadows and soothing ponds. Scents of citronella envelop me and bells tinkle softly when I enter. The shop cat, Marley, rubs against my tanned, bare legs and I catch a glimpse through an open door where women, seated on mats, are greeting the day. They hold quartz crystal singing bowls, allowing sound frequencies to reverberate throughout their bodies during the Life Yoga session.
“Hi Mom,” I greet her cheerfully. “Good morning, Sunshine,” she chirps, sipping her green smoothie. “We’re getting an order of crystals today and I will need your help with the display,” she adds, finishing off her smoothie in one gulp.
“Sure Mom,” I nod, kicking off my sandals and stretching my toes on the cool wood floor.
I’m fascinated by the intensity of brilliance as I carefully unwrap each jewel. My mom cherishes each adoringly. Being part of a vibrant community of New Age type advocates, she adheres to beliefs that crystals contain healing properties as well as protection and emotional support. This community has nurtured me my entire life and I feel a great kinship with each member.
Mom hangs an amethyst amulet around my neck and croons, “This will help reduce your anxiety and enhance your will power.” She is aware of my current needs.
I have been experiencing a quagmire of reflections—- very nerve-racking. Something about me, about my life, just does not feel real. I’m feeling like this magical life of quasi-nirvana vibes is unreal. I’m looking for truth.
Later that evening, after lighting my favorite patchouli incense, I turn on the television. I see some evangelist named Billy Graham, warning that attaching spiritual significance or power to objects, like crystals, is a form of idolatry, according to the Bible. I’m hearing that “The true God is not a mystical power to be manipulated, but the sovereign God who desires a personal relationship with us.”
I finger the amethyst amulet hanging from my neck hesitantly. Am I relying on mysticism and magic to control my life? I don’t want to believe it. I feel Holy Spirit nudge me. Although crystals hold no power to emanate good vibrations, they are beautiful pieces of God’s creation.
This transformative moment floods through me and I fall to the floor in submission. For the very first time in my life I see the truth.
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free,” (John 8:32 You Version) There is more to life. There is more to death. There is eternity.
My heart sings with the knowledge that ‘In the new Jerusalem, the glory of God shines like the brilliance of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal…’ (Revelation 21:11 )