Speaking With Aliens
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Society -> subcategory Weddings.
Speaking With Aliens
Introduction
Some years ago, as new residents in town, we decided to attend church one Sunday. Our group consisted of five: two parents, capable of blending into any social setting, and three adorable children?"fourth-grader Chrissie, second-grader Chuckie, and Rachel, my three-year-old niece who had recently joined our family. It was your typical All-American family church visit.
The Church Visit
Spotting an area of empty pews, we walked down the aisle with the kids between us and took our seats. We unknowingly sat in a conspicuous spot that, as we later learned, marked us as new arrivals.
The service proceeded smoothly until the children were invited for a special sermon. Our three kids eagerly joined the others at the front.
The Children’s Sermon
The minister, unaware of what was to come, began his sermonette. Chrissie, usually observant but reserved, listened intently. Chuckie, though less perceptive, loved to contribute and had inherited a booming voice that carried far. Meanwhile, Rachel, with her bright blonde hair, had a knack for captivating an audience?"a skill she particularly enjoyed.
When the minister posed a rhetorical question, Chuckie, unfamiliar with the concept, offered a loud and thorough answer, much to the congregation's entertainment. As the minister continued, Rachel entertained herself and the congregation by making faces, delighting in the laughter she provoked. Persisting through the commotion, the minister asked another rhetorical question, prompting Chuckie to respond enthusiastically once more.
The minister, visibly flustered, wrapped up quickly. Chuckie returned, pleased with his contributions, followed by Rachel, who continued to charm those around her. Chrissie brought up the rear, rolling her eyes at her siblings, earning further amusement from the congregation.
The Revelation
During the main sermon, sunlight suddenly streamed through a towering window behind the minister, blinding us. It became clear why our pews had been vacant; only new visitors ended up in this glaring spotlight.
Scanning the church, we noticed all other seating was comfortably occupied, leaving us to endure the bright sun.
The Aftermath
Our antics and seating choice made it clear we were newcomers. At the service's end, once our eyes adjusted, we joined others downstairs for coffee to meet the congregation.
Unexpectedly, no one engaged with us. We smiled in greeting, but people hurried past, avoiding interaction. My husband muttered something about deodorant, but I missed the details. After about twenty minutes, we left as our kids finished their snacks, feeling invisible.
Reflection
This experience is common in many churches today. If you're ignored during a visit, know it's not about you. Even with our lively visit, the church still ignored us.
Avoid churches where you're unwelcome. Those with insincere greeters aren't much better. Seek a church where people value others as much as themselves. There, you'll be welcomed and appreciated. And remember to extend that warmth to others.
© 2007 Bette Dowdell. All rights reserved.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Speaking With Aliens.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.