Schist
Schist is one of those rocks that doesn’t seem to have a whole lot going on. Its main defining quality is that it splits into plates, but it doesn’t do so nearly as dramatically or usefully as slate, and when rockhounds see it, they tend to move right on by since it’s so common. It’s also of no particular commercial use, so on the whole everyone tends to overlook it. Poor schist! That said, it’s what some mountains are made of, and it has one other function we can all appreciate: It provides a good environment for the kinds of crystals we prize. Any number of gem-quality minerals can be found in schist, from garnet and emerald to ruby and sapphire. In other words, this rock is kind of like a stage crew: It stands in the background, out of the limelight, supporting all the stars of the show. Though it may not ever be the main character itself, maybe we should all give schist a little more gratitude and attention. After all, wouldn’t the world be a better place if more of us stepped back and focused on supporting others from time to time?
The Bottom Line
SERVICE
“Now is the time to let someone else shine.”
One Or More Of These Messages Are For You
- Right now is not your time to be a main character.
- Step into the background and relinquish the throne: You don’t always need to be the star.
- Are you being a good friend and community member by donating your time, energy, and services to the people and things you care about? If not, actively seek out ways that you can be of service to others.
- Be a good supporting character by fostering or supporting someone else’s achievements and success.
- If you desperately want a bigger role but it’s not happening, don’t panic. For now, just stay humble, don’t grumble, and continue to cheerfully support others from the background; there may be something you need to learn before you’re ready to step into the light.
- If you’ve been feeling like a “has-been” lately, try to find peace with where you are now and learn to find joy in leading a quieter, more service-focused life.
- Someone you know might be in need to help and support right now.
- You might make a great teacher or mentor or find your calling in the service industry.