That is the Hebrew meaning of my cousin Shaina’s name. She has always had a special place in my heart. When she was born my family was stationed in Germany. I was so excited to meet my new little cousin when we came to visit California that summer. She was born on April 7; diamond is her birthstone and the number 7 is God’s perfect number. For that reason, I never forget her birthday and I have always believed she had a divine touch of angelic origin. Her mother comes from the same cherubic lineage; which explains why I have the same notions about her.

Since Shaina was a tot she had a boldness in her faith and her actions. Those who don’t know her well would characterise her as shy or even introverted. But her family knows different. Shaina isn’t timid about matters of importance to her. When she was a small child we would come by her house and pick her up for church, she would have her Bible and pigtails in tow. It is as if she has always known where she “truly” comes from.

As I write she is walking where the Messiah walked! She received, through and arduous process, a paid trip to Israel via the program Birthright. Our entire family is proud and jealous of her adventure through the Holy Land. I have very maternal feelings toward her because I know how beautiful her heart is. When people throughout here 21 years have seen through her it bothers me greatly because they have committed a great infraction against one of the loveliest of God’s creations. She is a priceless diamond whose family is blessed to live with the light that reflects from every facet of her soul.