Before I wrapped the above gift for the woman who asked me to be her sponsor for confirmation, I took several photos. She chose St. Michael the Archangel as her Patron Saint, and I wanted to acknowledge that with my gift. I thought this plaque was wonderful, not so sure she loved it, I think she will in time. It really is pretty. So, tonight was the confirmation. It was a glorious thing. She was the only adult being confirmed. The other confirmati were 11th graders. Those 11th graders were impressive. They were asked questions by the priest in front of the congregation, and they mostly answered admirably. I am glad they were put on the spot like that. That is what real life is like. You don't get to hide and not be embarrassed if you didn't pay attention.
The really remarkable thing for me was that I felt that I belonged. There were so many years that I felt "less than". So many years when I felt that if they really knew who I was, they would throw me out. Tonight I sat with my sponsee, and felt that I belonged. It was not about me. It was about me being of service to my friend, being supportive of her and providing guidance.
I learned that in Alcoholics Anonymous. Let the detractors say that we hide out in AA and learn nothing, but I know it has taught me how to do almost everything valuable that I do today. And I do some valuable things, by the Grace of God.
I am so grateful.
11 comments:
A feeling of "belonging" is SO very important, for well-being.
Before I came to AA I had played violin foe 35 years.
However, I can say I really learned how to handle the stresses, the problematic minutiae--right here in our fellowship. Gratitude, Peace, serenity, happiness, all are finally attributes of sobriety for me, and all--I hope--make me a better person. Certainly a better violin player!
At. Michael the Archangel is and has been a favorite angel of mine ever since first grade. And, since angels have names just like us, I named mine "Flex"...He is GOOD!
Thanks.
Again.
I never felt as if I belonged either. And I still have some moments where I feel awkward or not loved. But those are few and far between for the most part. It helps that I have come to value myself.
I am glad that you participated in something so important for your sponsee. You are a friend to so many.
I love that plaque, I think it's beautiful. She is lucky to have you.
How is this night time posting working for you?
I'm not sure about it yet.
I certainly like the feeling of being apart of than apart from.
Thanx for all that you do and, more importantly, all that you are...
You have blessed many of us, you certainly seem to have found your purpose - I support that you do truly belong...
What a gorgeous gift! May all of the saints be with you today. Each has a gift for you! J.
The plaque is beautiful, what a lovely gift!
It's a beautiful gift and I know your friend must have felt blessed to have you there with her. Thanks for the thoughts on "belonging" also. I think maybe I've felt like I didn't belong in the past as well but I do belong and so do you.
I know what it like to feel that way. I went through a lot of that in school. It's not a good feeling. I'm glad you had a nice time.
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