Richard Rayner, MD
One of Glen Campbell’s greatest hits was “Rhinestone Cowboy.” He could sport snazzy outfits and be outdone only by the likes of Porter Wagoner or Dolly Parton. The bright stage lights would bounce off the performers’ outfits scattering sparkling rays back at the audience and cameras. The performers appeared to be covered in diamonds! However, up close, it was evident that the studded clothing was covered in rhinestones, not diamonds.
I sometimes wonder if, in our lives, we often choose rhinestones instead of diamonds. Formed at extremely high temperatures and pressure, deep in the earth’s mantle, diamonds are remarkably resilient and durable. Rhinestones have value only in the shine they provide. Close scrutiny and testing reveals their poor quality — good only for gazing from a distance. Through our point-and-click, disposable society we may be tempted to think that the appearance — the sparkle if you will — takes on more importance than the substance of the thing. Applying the analogy to the emotional, spiritual, and relational areas of life, there may be a temptation to settle for what looks good instead of pursuing the substantive choice.
But what happens when tested? If when making decisions, we’ve tended to choose the lesser quality thing, will we have built up the strength to endure the hard times and accompanying pressures? If we ignore the subtle, but dangerous, trends in our relationships because it’s just too much effort to address, where will it end up? Fast food is quick and easy, but our tummies might regret it in the short term, and our bodies will pay for it in the long term. If we choose to not tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth in our relationships, will we find ourselves insecure and not trusting those we long to love and to have love us?
The right thing is always the more difficult thing. While our grandparents and those that came before them were surprised if something came easily, we are surprised if something is hard. Technology can bring us lots of good things quickly and with ease, but when it comes to the substantive areas of life — our physical health, our emotions, and our relationships – it’s wise to question anything that promises a quick and easy improvement. Chances are it’s a rhinestone. Pursue the diamond.
