Weekend Musings

Last night I went to see a community production of Fiddler on the Roof. I often hate musicals and keep the program handy to see how long I must endure. But, last night was different. We had 2nd row seats and the cast was wonderful - with the exception of one nervous cast member who vomited in the middle of crowd scene- but moving right along...

I was unfamiliar with the production and found myself enamored with the story. The questioning of tradition, the love of family, and the perplexities of faith that the characters dealt with in this 1905 story parallels so much of my own story. I, too, am entrenched in tradition and love of family, yet my life's path enters into new territory that is - at times - scary for all of us. Like the young brides in Fiddler, I know that love matters and that while I want my parent's blessing, I dare not ask for permission. (In some ways this is a moot point, my father is deceased and my mother teeters on the wall of dementia). In her own way, my mother has offered her blessing and I have not shared my recent joys with other family members.

My faith journey is a bit more comfortable. Coming out sparked an internal revival. In the words of Christ, "you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free." I have been liberated from spiritual stagnation and released to experience love and grace in a new manner. I have also been "filled up" to the point of being able to engage in ministry again. Praise be to god.

Today I am also grateful for my family of choice - a rag-tag band of travelers who walk this journey with me. I celebrate the upcoming addition of 2 new Ethiopian nieces. I thank god for the gift of community that has been given to a gay college student cousin. I cherish the time spent this afternoon laughing and playing with young highschool boys. Intentional family. Intentional ministry.