I may not have known it, but I have always been free, both when I was a believer and now that I'm not. God never has controlled my thoughts and decisions. The church culture tried to control me, but its only power is what I allowed it to have. I’m free. I own my … Continue reading I Have Always Been Free
Category: Christianity
Conflict with Daddy
He often said... that I was much weaker than him. I wasn’t strong enough to work as hard as he did. I couldn’t stand up to pressure like he could. And I believed it.
The Old (Crazy) Songs
Believe it or not, this was one of those “feel good” songs, where people stood up, swayed, and clapped their hands, smiling at each other, marveling at how they could worship and have fun at the same time.
Performing a Wiccan Wedding: A Change in Perspective
Recently, I performed my first Wiccan Wedding ceremony for a lovely young couple and their baby.
Rocky Mountain Shame
In our church, we were suspicious of anything too emotional. We thought it was dangerous to get too caught up in wonder or elation because happiness couldn’t possibly be spiritual.
Throwing Away the Script
"I'm ashamed of you," she said. But she didn't mean it. Her religious leaders taught her to say such things and it caused her pain.
I Counted In Church
Leaving the church was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I have no qualms about letting go of God and religion. But the people--I loved them and I still do. I am aware of the flaws, dysfunction, and outright abuse that happened in many churches, and I understand that those who were … Continue reading I Counted In Church
I No Longer Reach for Heaven
I’m astounded that anyone could be persuaded to accept a way of life that guarantees their condemnation. But I’m sorry to say we made converts.
Roadside Reacquaintance
A beat-up sedan pulled up behind us and a young man climbed out. He was barefoot and shirtless.... "Y'all need any help?" he drawled.
Pangs of Envy
After forty years, I can say I'm free of envy of my fellow youth group member, even if he is still handsome at sixty--like a movie star who has decided to make his hair gray to acknowledge he’s aging but still sexy.
Deep Calls 