Rock.

rock ¹ (rk)

n.

1. Relatively hard, naturally formed mineral or petrified matter; stone.

2.

a. A relatively small piece or fragment of such material.

b. A relatively large body of such material, as a cliff or peak.

3. A naturally formed aggregate of mineral matter constituting a significant part of the earth's crust.

4. One that is similar to or suggestive of a mass of stone in stability, firmness, or dependability: The family has been his rock during this difficult time.

5. rocks Slang Money.

6. Slang A large gem, especially a diamond.

Idioms:

between a rock and a hard place

Confronted with equally unpleasant alternatives and few or no opportunities to evade or circumvent them.

on the rocks

1. In a state of difficulty, destruction, or ruin: Their marriage is on the rocks.

2. Without money; bankrupt: Our accountant says the business is on the rocks.

(http://www.thefreedictionary.com/rock)

I always wanted a rock since I was a little girl. A rock with the following characteristics.

- a rock that made sparks...good for warm fires
- a rock that possibly dull on the outside hid a diamond within.
- a rock that was dependable
- a rock that was shelter from the rain and no matter the downpour....I was always dry.
- a rock that was patient.
- a rock that stayed long enough to listen.
- a rock that could be carried with me whenever I strove to conquer the world.
- a rock that made pebbles to take its place in the world.
- a rock that when thrown would always come back.
- a rock that didn't travel in the pockets of others.
- a rock that didn't place itself above others in the world.
- a rock that isn't out of reach.
- a rock with core components of honor, truth, and loyalty.
- a rock that stood against the storm.

And here I stand, a rock in hand at the crossroads of life. Which way do I throw it?