Maya is about mid way through the half year long Coming of Age program offered at our church. Participants examine their spirituality and belief systems with the goal of developing a personal credo and sharing it with the entire congregation. Unitarian Universalism is characterized by a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning”. Members do not share a creed, but are unified by their shared search for spiritual growth.

This evening parents shared a letter in which they tell their child what they admire about them, why they value them, favorite memories, and words of wisdom. I worked on my letter all week and practiced it many times hoping I could control my emotions while reading it to Maya in front of her peers and their parents. Jeanine had a great letter and delivered it with style and grace. I didn’t make it through my first paragraph before I totally lost it. I felt very vulnerable as I struggled to complete the letter, sobbing uncontrollably during parts. Maya put her hand on my shoulder and only that consolation allowed me to finish. The feelings I expressed came from deep within me, tapping into emotions too powerful for me to control. Maya’s hug as I finished pulled me back from the depths. This photo was taken yesterday but I thought it appropriate to post today.