Sand Dollar

Hi there!  We went sand dollar searching today and struck gold on Gearhart Beach.  It was so fun to walk up and down the beach with a mission.  I wondered if they were dead when the "beached" I was told (by Teaka) and she told me they probably were but just to be safe, shake them and see if I can hear the doves.  I didn't know what she was talking about so I asked and then further researched it when I returned.  She said there are 5 doves that represent peace and Christians believe it is a gift from Jesus.  Here's a poem I've found on many websites tonight:

The Legend of the Sand Dollar

There's a lovely little legend
that I would like to tell,
of the birth and death of Jesus,
found in this lowly shell.
If you examine closely,
you'll see that you find here,four nail holes and a fifth one,
made by a Roman's spear.

On one side the Easter lily,
its center is the star,that appeared unto the shepherds
and led them from afar.

The Christmas Poinsettia
etched on the other side,
reminds us of His birthday,
our happy Christmastide.

Now break the center open,
and here you will release,
the five white doves awaiting,
to spread Good Will and Peace.

This simple little symbol,
Christ left for you and me,
to help us spread His Gospel,
through all Eternity.

Author Unknown

Pretty special little thing, isn't it?  :)  One thing I did learn is that the live sand dollars have tiny, velvety spines all over them (and they are dark), while the dead ones are have a smooth "test" or shell and are usually bleached white by the sun.  Learn something new every day...if only I remembered half of it, eh?

xxxme