Working My Pearls Day 22: Of the Water

Pearls are of the water, not of the earth, and their symbolism is inextricably tied to the water. In most cultures, water is recognized as the source of all life or that which makes life possible. Because water may be liquid, solid, or vapor, the ancient Greeks understood the power of water as a symbol of metamorphosis. The tides of the ocean represent renewal and rebirth in nearly all cultures around the world. And the absolute power of water can be seen all around us. The smallest creeks and the greatest canyons exist simply because a drop of water selected a path and never gave up.

Water may be a symbol of flexibility, but it’s also a symbol of immense power and strength of purpose. In “The Penelopiad” Margaret Atwood speaks of water (excerpt below) as a reminder to each of us of our limitless power to overcome any obstacle we are faced with. So wear your pearls.

"Water flows. When you plunge your hand into it, all you feel is a caress. Water is not a solid wall, it will not stop you. But water always goes where it wants to go, and nothing, in the end, can stand against it. Water is patient. Dripping water wears away stone. Remember that, my child. Remember you are half water. If you can’t go through an obstacle, go around it. Water does." - Margaret Atwood