Upon arrival to an appointment with a doctor or technician, I find myself headed straight to the hospital’s gift/book store for one of these stones. Each have a different word that brings value to me for the day: a bit of hope, a part of peace, and now a new tradition. While in the lobby or waiting anywhere, I hold the rock firm in my hands, turn it over, read it, take pictures of it, run my fingers over the letters, close my eyes, often remember what He said about rocks praising him, the King of Kings.

I even place the stone in my back pant pocket and I am reminded throughout the day. Reminds me of ancient altars discussed in scripture from the days of old, usually created as a memorial to the place where God meets his people. He still does.

This one was gathered on the day of the initial meeting with the surgeon.