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We describe crystals as growing, because over time they do. They branch and spike, in what appear like subterranean gardens, as more atoms connect with each other in orderly repeated geometric patterns. This perfect symmetry mimics nature's other phenomena, such as snowflakes, the whorls of a petal, or a butterfly's wings. At the same time, their colors remind us of the beauty of nature and that something bigger and stronger exists beyond us. People talk of them as being alive, because their inner color can alter, appearing to fire up or fade depending on the light and time of day. Even weather patterns can effect changes, making a crystal appear almost animated.
I cradled these memories, let them wail and moan and cut me. I hadn't learned how to have empathy for myself, only for other people.
