James W. A.

Last night, I attended the Easter Vigil service for the first time in a very long time. The obvious traditions and imagery aside, what really stood out to me at this stage of my life was the expressions on the individuals and families coming into the Church, those delving deeper into Christ’s communion. When I was younger, I used to help facilitate this ceremony and, both in my role and in the folly of my youth, it was hard to see people embracing Christ as people. Not in a derogatory way, but in a numbers way, as names on a list, as part of a job, a task I had to complete.

Last night, I saw an above average amount of people be baptized, confirmed, and receive their first communion and for the first time, I saw it as… beautiful. Families cried together, laughed together, couples held hands and lit up in a way I could only admire (and envy, admittedly). These people had lives that led them to this moment, dreams that were coming true, and joys they were experiencing in a profound way. What I once viewed as a long, drawn-out inconvenience for me, was now a privilege in witnessing a life-changing moment for fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s weird to be on this side of things, but a blessing, to be sure.

I don’t know if I have a profound point here, but if you are the praying type, if you know God’s grace intimately, maybe take a moment today to offer up gratitude for that. And, I think more importantly, to pray for those that don’t. I don’t think life is about finding a church or subscribing to one set of tenants or another necessarily, but to know the love of our Creator and share in His joy. Not everyone does, some willingly, some despite trying, so pray that the people you love feel God’s love too. If you don’t already, of course; I know I do every damn day of my life.

If you’re not the praying type, share your love in the best way that you know how with the people in your life. I think it’s pretty obvious to anyone that the world needs more love and peace and you can help make his world a better one, even if it's in a seemingly small way.

And to everyone, everyone, have a happy and safe Easter!

I read this poem at an open mic last week and one of my favorite poets in Kansas City told me it was my best yet, so you know, I've been riding that high for a little while.

Poem taken from Finality of the Heart, my newest collection
(Link in bio)

January is a time of new beginnings and a little over a year ago, I had a big new beginning of my own. A lot has changed since then, a lot hasn't, but along the way, I've made some incredible connections and friends and have become a lot more comfortable here in the Midwest. I've still got a lot of growing and learning to do in 2026, but I'm building a real place for myself in this talented and beautiful City I've come to love!

This poem is found in my Finality of the Heart collection (Link in bio)