March of 2022 hits a little different this year as it is not only my twin sister and I’s birthday month, but it also marks the month of our departure from our 20’s. That’s right, we are now sitting pretty in the 30’s club. While that realization is sometimes hard to swallow, it does also offer the wisdom and maturity of lessons learned in years prior. But that last hour of my twenties, was still unpleasantly indescribable. 

March also marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. I don’t know about you, but those warmer, balmy eves ahead just make me feel happier. Researching more about this month, I learned that March is named after the Roman god, Mars. His persona can be simplified as devoted and determined, representing prowess in battle, courage and fighting for a cause. And this month remains to be a month of promise. Being born in this transitional month, unapologetic for its possibility and commitment is a gift that I am grateful for. Even if aquamarine is not exactly my color. Good thing March just so happens to have two birthstones. While I do my best to maintain my optimism and faith in the meaning behind March’s more beautiful aquamarine stone, I recently found myself more drawn to the original bloodstone. This stone is tied to a more painful and dramatic past signifying noble sacrifice, strength and courage of the heart. I would be lying if I said that these last few years leading up to my thirties were easy and full of happy bliss. Never to discount any of my blessings and pleasantries over those last years, it did also come with much emotional sacrifice and blind belief. 

Leading up to this next chapter, I have been holding on to a more bloodstone mentality, but having the opportunity to also connect with the aquamarine state of mind continues to inspire me. While low points can seem pretty weakening, there is a light and lesson to the hardship, all meant to strengthen your truest desire. Bringing to mind fresh seawater and clear skies — serene and tranquil — aquamarine gems have become a symbol for emotional purity, protection and foresight. Let go of that which no longer serves you and of those that do not not take stock in your value or the journey of your dreams. It is said that when it comes to keeping your mental and emotional wellness afloat, that is where aquamarine, as one of the best healing crystals, truly seems to shine. Also noted as the stone of courage, paying homage to your inner strength and resilience, it has a nurturing ability to help you step out of the shadows and into the light. A lesson I am learning myself as I let go of the things I cannot change and welcome all that can come in my thirties. It is high time for overwhelm and doubt to be washed away so we can emerge clear-headed and continue getting the things we want most in life. 

Lastly, happiest of birthday’s to my twin — my best friend, my business partner and my confidante, Ashley Nicole. This is just the beginning.

— Heather Marie