Sunday, Glorious Sunday

Mom, Dad, my brother Josh, my step-dad, five grandparents, an aunt and uncle all drove down here this morning for my confirmation service at church. It was a delight to be able to take communion with all of them. Their presence made an already special day extraordinary. Not only did they come to church with me, we all went out to lunch together. I feel that I was really blessed today. It was amazing. When I got to the restaurant (last), I saw everyone sitting at one table, all mixed among each other. They were talking and mingling and the whole scene was incredibly heart-warming.

My confirmation was a great experience. I have been an unofficial member of this church for over three years now. They have been unwavering in their receptiveness and support. My priest, Mother Bear, is a rock. This church is the force that makes Hattiesburg a home for me.

I must admit, I feel very empowered right now. My Lenten discipline is to be more proactive in my life and my spiritual journey and today was not only a ceremony to commemorate my joining the church but also a milestone where I took responsibility for the direction of my walk. I feel as if a million doors were opened for me today and I can't wait to see where they lead.

I would also like to share something with you all in this post. It's Brother Bono's acceptance speech at the NAACP awards ceremony. Say what you will about Bono's personality or the direction the NAACP has gone in; Bono has a fantastic message and the power to reach the whole world with that message. I am a firm believer in the One Campaign and in what he has to say here. He isn't saying anything new, but if he can make a difference, I hope he repeats it until every living person has heard it a hundred times.