One of a Kind

CELERY

Sometimes, a small and ordinary thing — like a grain of sand — can open our eyes to the wonder of God’s presence.

Once shared under Discover, this reflection returns as part of Whispers of Light — a gentle reminder that in God’s eyes, each of us is one of a kind.

Author’s Note
Originally published on September 26, 2020, under Discover, this reflection received many thoughtful responses — among them, precious words from five loved ones who are now lovingly remembered. To my daughter, Amanda, classmate, Penny, my dearest friends Boy and Evelyn, and Dessie – your voices remain part of its story, preserved in that original post (see archives).

As I bring this renewed version into Whispers of Light, I carry with me their memory and the quiet grace that once surrounded this piece. May it continue to speak of God’s tender presence in all things — even in something as small and wondrous as a grain of sand.

Everyone is familiar with sand. Its colors may range from pale cream to brown, pink, orange, or even black. It is one of those things around us that we easily take for granted.

In the early 2000s, Dr. Gary Greenberg, a scientist, inventor, educator, and micro landscape artist, discovered a hidden treasure in something as ordinary as sand. Using a high-powered microscope of his own design, he magnified grains hundreds of times. What he saw astonished him: each grain revealed a miniature world of color, form, and beauty. No two grains were alike — each one was extraordinary.

When I came across one of his magnified images online, I was both amazed and fascinated. Never again will sand look or feel the same to me.

What Does a Grain of Sand Imply?

If lifeless grains of sand can be so distinct, what does this say about us — we who are alive, created, and loved?

We may resemble others in looks or background, but our uniqueness runs deeper than appearance or circumstance. Among the billions of people on this planet, no one shares the same identity, story, or soul. Each of us is singular — unrepeatable.

As a Christian, I find great meaning in this. Sadly, this wonder often remains hidden from those who do not believe in God or doubt His existence. Like the sand, the divine beauty of creation is invisible until light shines upon it.

“God created mankind in his image; in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:28)

I was born with both body and soul. The soul — often spoken of as the heart or spirit — is where God resides within me. It is my divine connection to Him, the source of my life’s purpose, and the reason for my spiritual journey on earth. When my earthly life ends, my soul will continue, beginning a new chapter in my eternal home with God.

In God’s Eyes

Here lies the most beautiful truth: my soul is unique. God has given me free will and graced me with His blessings. Each day, I receive anew the gift of His love and guidance, enabling me to live according to His plan.

How I respond to that call is my choice. I may strive to become a saint — with a big “S” or a small one — or I may resist His path and wander astray. It is, indeed, up to me.

God does not compare my growth to anyone else’s. Why should I? In His eyes, I am one of a kind — special, irreplaceable, and beloved. I am like one grain among countless others, yet seen and cherished by Him alone for who I truly am.

And so, I must do the same — to look at others as God does, to see each person as one of His unique creations.

“To me, you will be unique in all the world.
To you, I shall be unique in all the world.”
— The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Dedication

My brother, Fr. Ruben M. Tanseco, SJ, often reminded us to recognize and honor our uniqueness as God made us — for there is no one exactly like another, in any time or in any way.

I dedicate this reflection to Ruben who will be 94 years old this November 23 — a glorious one-of-a-kind soul, unmatched, beloved, and called home by that unconditional love we call God.

Closing Reflection

When I think of the countless grains of sand spread across the earth, I am humbled — and deeply comforted. Each grain reminds me that in the vastness of creation, God sees me. He knows me, loves me, and calls me His own. Like the sand beneath His light, I too am one-of-a-kind — a small yet luminous part of His infinite design.