How did I end up here? Honestly, I am still trying to figure that out. It was one of those Sunday mornings where my emotions felt like a storm I could not control. I was emotionally drained and angry. Not just a little annoyed, but the kind of anger that tightens your chest and makes your whole body tense. I needed a way out of my own head.
So, I decided to do the logical thing and go get some coffee. Maybe that small ritual would calm me down and give me a little boost to face the day. I pictured myself strutting into the coffee shop, ordering my usual, and sipping like I had everything under control, even if I didn’t.
But, of course, when I got there, the coffee shop was closed. Locked up tight. No sign, no warning, just closed. Like seriously? Of all days? I stood there for a second, staring at those doors like they personally betrayed me.
So I started walking home, the weight of the morning pressing down on me. I was not just tired; I was done. Emotionally exhausted in a way that made every step feel heavy.
That is when an older man passed me on the sidewalk. He gave me a warm smile, tipped his hat, and said, “Good morning, ma’am. I will see you.” It was such a small gesture, but something about it caught me off guard. I smiled back, a little confused, and then it clicked — he meant the church next door. The one I had passed a thousand times without a second thought.
For the first time, I felt a flicker of something different. What are the odds? It’s gotta be a sign. So, I decided not to ignore the universe giving me a nudge. I made my way home and figured, why not change into something a bit more appropriate? I did grow up going to a Catholic church, so I knew showing up looking like I just rolled out of bed was not exactly the move.
I was a little nervous, to be honest. New town, new people, and I had no idea how they felt about newcomers. But I do love to make an entrance, so I threw my fear in my purse and took it with me.
I walked into the building and was immediately approached by a stunning woman who asked if I needed help. Her name was Shirley, I found out later — absolute doll.
She asked me lots of questions and made me feel so welcomed. Then, she let me know there was not a service until about two hours later, which confused and slightly embarrassed me. But she told me there was a Bible study happening right then that I could join. Obviously, I had to see it through, so I said, “Of course.”
She walked me up a flight of stairs and into a smaller room, this one with a coffee station that had at least six kinds of mix-ins and toppings. She had definitely found the way to my heart.
After making my coffee, she led me to another room — this one a bit bigger, filled with all sorts of couches and chairs.
There were about seven people there. I walked in, made a short introduction, and everyone seemed really welcoming. They even offered me homemade cinnamon rolls, which was amazing but not the main point here. The real point is I felt welcomed and like I was there to do some good.
My mood had lifted, and I knew I could be productive and actually learn something.
We did a few icebreakers and then went over the teaching from the week prior. And guys, oh my gosh, I could not tell you how life changing it was. We talked about the book of Matthew, and I am just going to tell you the quote that changed everything for me, and I hope this is relevant to someone. (Matthew 6:14-15 — “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”)
Everyone took turns talking about their interpretations of it and how it was meant to be interpreted, and it was beautiful to see and hear, even if we did not all agree. It definitely helped clear up some of my anger and see the things I was turning a blind eye to.
After Bible study, I snagged a few people’s numbers — because yes, I am that person — and I have been going every single week since. There is always coffee, because how else would I survive? Plus cozy chairs that basically beg you to stay, and the best kind of people who actually want to grow and be real. We dive into the most mind blowing stories, and honestly, each week leaves me feeling a little lighter, a lot more hopeful, and connected to a community I did not even know I needed. Trust me, this has become my new kind of girls’ night, and I am here for it.
P.S. my interpretation if you were curious
This verse is basically saying forgiveness is like a glow-up for your soul. Holding onto grudges just weighs you down and messes with your vibe. Letting go and forgiving not only frees others but lets you drop those heavy expectations and feel way lighter and more at peace.
LOVE, P
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