My Lucky Bracelet

I have this bracelet that I have been wearing for a few years now. It is one single strand of small, round jade beads on an elastic string. If you were to look at it you would think it is nothing special. It is simple and understated. But to me it is very important – it is my lucky bracelet. 

I had two of them, given to me by a friend from a little boutique in Santa Monica. The beads have symbolic meaning – they are believed to calm the mind, encourage peace and reflection, and promote visions and dreams. They promote success, confidence and power. Ever since I have been wearing these bracelets I have had incredible luck. When I take them off, I notice things do not go as smoothly. 

One of the two broke off my wrist while I was running at the gym, spreading the tiny jade beads all over the treadmill and gym floor. I couldn’t collect enough to repair the bracelet. I accepted my fate that I was down to only 1. I rarely take it off. I took it off on my trip to Panama and lost my luggage for 3 days. I stopped wearing the remaining bracelet when the other one fell apart and my mom broke her arm. I put on the bracelet the other night and not only was my work event a success, but I had confidence and self-esteem like I have never felt. I truly believe in the power and luck of this bracelet.

What leads me to write this blog is the sad reality that this bracelet’s days are also numbered. The elastic is stretched beyond repair and is starting to break apart. The bracelet is loose and ready to rip apart at any moment. I do not want to let go and do not want to have to replace it. I am also a bit superstitious and believe that the next will not be lucky. These bracelets were given to me as a gift for no reason, on a whim by a friend. They were not for a birthday or for any particular reason; they were not expensive; they were nothing special. But they are priceless to me.

I think if I were to go out and buy a new bracelet it may look nice, but it will have no value. It will not have come into my life in any unique way. It will not bring me as much fortune, confidence, or good luck. If I repair this bracelet will I tarnish its powers? I will wait and see what the fate is for this dear bracelet and maybe it is a sign that it is time to find the confidence from within and that I no longer need to rely on stones to find my inner peace. Maybe it will be my time to shine on my own and be successful from my own merit. Maybe I should wait for another one to make its way to me...

If this is the biggest dilemma in my life at the moment I think I am in good shape.