how did I get here?

One year ago today I went to church. Well, not one calendar year ago... but one church year ago. I think of this day as the last official act of my Godfather because on Ash Wednesday 2011, he passed away. And, on Ash Wednesday 2011, I went to church for the first time in quite a long time.

I am feeling somewhat fortunate that not many people probably remember me slipping in and out that day because I was probably the strange new girl who looked like she was on the verge of tears. Not a great first impression to make.

But, I went again the next Wednesday for Lenten services... and the next. And soon, people started to notice and talk to me. In June 2011, I transferred membership from the church I grew up in, which I no longer live near, to this one. It had only been about 10 or 11 years since I've lived there. Perhaps I "lost my way" for a while, or didn't find what I was looking for. But, for a good amount of time, I went when I was visiting my parents, and that's about it. And, today, I'm probably a work in progress. Aren't we all?

When I joined, Pastor and I had a conversation and after getting me up to speed, he asked if there was any feedback I wanted to give. I think he was a bit surprised when I told him: "Honestly, the only reason I came here in the first place was because your website was up-to-date. This was the first I found (and one of few) that had their Lenten service times posted... and that's when I first came." I told him that I appreciated it because, maybe it's a generational thing, but I am not going to call and ask about service times. If I can't find it online, it doesn't exist.

So, when they needed someone to help with the website, I offered to help because it was something that was important to me. And, it gives me another way to help without singing in the choir. Trust me - that would be helpful to no one, or their ears. And, when they wanted to start a Facebook page, another woman and I offered to help, so now we manage that.

So, here I am, a church year later. Attending regularly and finding ways to participate that match my talents and meet their needs. And, having a few small-world moments with people I've met.... and a number of really small world moments with one family in particular to the point that it's almost weird now. (In a good way - I enjoy them. *wink*)

And, on March 9, we will be one calendar year later. Thanks, Lavaine, for being my Godfather and for your last official act. Well-played. And, I miss you.