I had a whole other post ready to go for today and then the day unfolded and graced me with a yet another unexpected experience.
After a day of markets and watching the Halloween Dog Runway Show at the Monroe Street Arts Walk, I came home, rested a bit, and then went for a stroll. Crunchy leaves and maybe the addition of a few more steps.
Then I heard some music and lots of noise. I thought it was another block party and made my way over to the next street. It was a church having a Fall Festival. I had just walked up to see what as happening, and as it was near the end, everyone who was still there, gathered into a big circle and joined hands. Then stopped. And looked at me.
The Reverend spoke up and said: “Please join us.”
The next thing I knew I was holding hands and part of a prayer circle at a church on Hamlin Street.
Remember that Scene in the Original Grinch, where the Whos of Whoville are holding hands singing “Fah Who Foris, Dah Who Doris” around their Christmas Tree? And then the Grinch rides into town on his sleigh and they open the circle to let him in. Welcoming him regardless of his past deeds and obvious differences.
That was kinda me. And it’s how I spent my Halloween afternoon before handing out candy. And in case you didn’t catch the reference, this was an all black church. And I was literally, the only white person there.
What else is there to say about this except: We are all just people. And the kaleidoscope of differences just makes the world and life way more interesting. I love it in fact. In the end, we all pretty much want the same things: safety, health, housing, food, friends, family, love and community.
I’ve never even noticed that Church and it’s a few blocks from my house. This Road to ANC thing has really been eye opening. And win or lose, I’m thankful for all the people and experiences I would never have had I not chosen to run. I decided today that I will visit every church in my SMD.
Happy Halloween.
–Elise for ANC5b03
ps. At this current time I’m happy to report I only ate 4 pieces of candy.
pss. I LOVE turning the clocks back. zzzzzz