Monique Kemper DeSalvo


Symbols are everywhere—on our jewelry, our clothing, our skin, even our cars. They appear in sacred texts, ancient ruins, and modern logos. Often, we may not consciously notice them, yet they play an active role in shaping how we see the world and how we connect with something larger than ourselves. For me, symbols are more than just decorative or cultural emblems—they’re anchors for my spirit. They serve to inspire me, guide me through challenges, and offer protection and comfort in times of doubt.
Among the many symbols found throughout human history, three in particular hold deep personal meaning for me: the Christian cross, the infinity symbol, and the ancient Egyptian ankh. Each of these symbols touches a different part of my soul, connecting me to faith, to the eternal nature of life, and to the sacred mystery of existence.
The Christian Cross: A Symbol of Faith, Sacrifice, and Salvation
The cross is perhaps the most recognized religious symbol in the world, and for me, it carries profound spiritual meaning. As a Christian, the cross represents the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ—His ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of mankind. This symbol isn’t just about death; it’s about victory over death. It speaks of divine love, redemption, grace, and the possibility of transformation.
When I see the cross, I’m reminded that suffering is not meaningless. Jesus’ suffering on the cross is the cornerstone of Christian faith—it represents the idea that love and sacrifice can overcome even the darkest moments. That idea has helped me through my own personal trials. Whether it’s during times of grief, confusion, or fear, the cross reminds me that my life has purpose, and that God is with me even when I can’t see the way forward.
Wearing a cross or simply seeing one during the day acts as a spiritual checkpoint. It invites me to pause, reflect, and realign myself with my beliefs. It reminds me of the power of forgiveness, the strength that comes from faith, and the beauty of personal growth through struggle. The cross, for me, is a source of strength and comfort—a sacred symbol of hope.
The Infinity Symbol: Embracing Eternity and Limitless Possibility
The infinity symbol—a simple sideways figure eight—has become a modern emblem of endlessness, often associated with eternal love and limitless potential. Its visual design, with no beginning and no end, captures the flow and continuity of life, energy, and time. What draws me most to this symbol is its calming reminder that nothing is ever truly over.
In a world that often feels rushed, linear, and finite, the infinity symbol brings a sense of peace. It whispers of cycles rather than endpoints, of evolution rather than finality. It reminds me that even when chapters close, the story continues in another form. Whether it’s love that transcends time, personal dreams that take years to unfold, or the soul’s journey beyond this lifetime, infinity reassures me that life’s possibilities are never exhausted.
I like to think of the infinity symbol as a visual prayer. It invites me to trust in the process, to release control over things I can’t change, and to remember that I’m part of something eternal. It helps me approach life with greater patience, compassion, and wonder. The more I reflect on this symbol, the more I feel in tune with the bigger picture of the universe—interconnected, infinite, and beautifully mysterious.
The Ankh: Honoring the Sacredness of Life and the Eternal Soul
The ankh, an ancient Egyptian symbol often referred to as the “key of life,” is rich with layered meanings. With its unique shape—a loop atop a T—it has been interpreted as a combination of male and female energies, or as a symbolic representation of the womb and the birth canal, conveying themes of life, fertility, and immortality. Historically, it was used in Egyptian art and hieroglyphs to denote “life.”
For me, the ankh symbolizes more than just life—it represents the eternal nature of the soul. It reminds me that while our physical lives are temporary, our spiritual essence transcends time. It brings a sense of reverence for the sacredness of life itself, urging me to live with intention, gratitude, and awareness of my deeper purpose.
The ankh also resonates with my curiosity about ancient wisdom and spiritual traditions. It serves as a bridge between the ancient and the modern, connecting me to the long lineage of human beings who have pondered life’s big questions: Why are we here? What happens after we die? What does it mean to truly live?
Whenever I see or wear the ankh, I feel connected to a greater flow of energy and knowledge. It reminds me that each life is part of a larger cosmic story, and that honoring the soul means honoring all forms of life around me. It’s both grounding and elevating—bringing me closer to the earth while simultaneously expanding my awareness beyond it.
Symbols as Spiritual Tools
Though these three symbols come from different cultures and eras, they each serve a similar purpose in my life: to center me. They remind me of who I am, what I believe, and how I want to live. The cross calls me back to faith and resilience. The infinity symbol encourages me to see beyond limitations. The ankh reminds me of the divine spark within all life.
In a world filled with distractions and noise, symbols provide clarity. They are silent but powerful companions on our journey—visual affirmations of our values, beliefs, and inner truths. Whether seen in sacred spaces or everyday objects, they carry messages that resonate deeply with the soul.
Ultimately, these symbols aren’t magical in themselves. Their power lies in what they awaken in us. For me, they serve as reminders that I am never alone, that life is far greater than what we see, and that love, growth, and spirit are eternal forces always at work.