Spring is here and there are signs of new life everywhere we turn. The trees are more green as their leaves return, flowers are in bloom, and fun outdoor events fill our calendars. In this season of newness, we would like to share something fresh with you: it’s a brand new series called, “I have a confession.”
What are we confessing?
Sometimes we feel pressure to conform or align with what is popular or hide it when we don’t. Occasionally, we attempt to hold on to something we would rather get off our chest. Whether you’re going against the grain, or you just need to sound off about something, it can feel good to get rid of that nagging guilt, shame, or confusion…We are here to invite you to reveal your truths. Silly, serious, large or small, we want to hear them all!
We’ll go first.
I, Erica, have a confession…
At the risk of making myself into a pariah, I have to admit that do not like Chicago-style pizza. Don’t get me wrong, deep-dish, cheesy, carby, goodness is usually up my alley. I tried it, I wanted to love it, but it just fell flat. I don’t blame Chicagoans or their pizza, though. In my heart i realize that this savory dish needs the spice of Italian meats! Try as they might, vegetarian varieties just aren’t as flavorful. There. I said it. And phew, don’t I feel better!
I, Crystal, have a confession…
I am a Christian, and I cuss a little. Well, maybe a lot. Many like to think that those who believe in God are better than that and don’t cuss, but I for one am not that person. I also have more Christian friends than I can count on two hands that cuss too. I won’t out them, because that’s their confession to make. BUT let’s just say, being a Christian doesn’t preclude you from dropping the “f” bomb, yelling “oh shit” when something goes wrong, or a declarative “dammit” of exasperation.
I’ll never forget meeting a friend of my husband’s when we were first dating. This friend had already learned that I was in seminary (or as my husband jokingly called “Jesus School”), and wasn’t phased by it since he had grown up Baptist. We had a great afternoon/evening hanging out as a group, but then we had a moment. At some point in the evening, the friend dropped something and things went a little like this…
Friend: OH SHIT! Oh, no. I’m so sorry.
Me: What are you sorry for?
Friend: I cussed, and you’re in school to be a pastor.
Me: You do know who I’m dating right?
Friend: Of course, I do.
Me: He cusses like a sailor.
Friend: Yeah, but you’re going to be a PASTOR.
Me: Seriously, it’s cool. Shit. Damn. Fuck. Do you feel better now?
Friend: *sighs* YES!
I have plenty of people who are afraid to cuss around me because I believe in Jesus, but I’m pretty sure he cussed too. The Bible had its own editors who told us what they wanted in their stories, but I’m pretty sure Jesus cussed when he overturned the tables in the temple or got frustrated with the dopey disciples in the Gospel of Mark.
Have something you want to share?
If so, drop us a line here. These confessions can help us let go and move forward, leaving the shame and the guilt behind. You took an extra complimentary cookie at Harris Teeter? Tell us about it. You secretly wish your mother-in-law would wax her upper lip? Let us know! You have a smelly cubicle mate? It’s safe to speak freely here.
If you’re willing to share your confessions on the blog, let us know in your submission. Each of us is different in how we want share things, some are more open and others maybe not. You are more than welcome to confess publicly; our blog is a safe space for you to be your authentically amazing and imperfect self. If you would prefer to share anonymously, and we fully respect that. Either is okay with us! Your confession, your choice.
We do have one disclaimer to add. While we fully support the airing of grievances, we have ethical responsibilities to our readership and fellow humans. If your confession involves criminal activity, don’t tell us. Tell the authorities! If you have caused irreparable pain to someone else, this may not be the venue for your confession.
These confessions can be an opportunity to apologize or voice regret for regrettable choices and actions, just not criminal ones.
Thank you for hearing our confession and we cannot wait to hear yours.
C+E
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