Monday, January 21, 2019

Let Freedom Ring 2019

Hubby Tony and I wanted to do something today to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. My weather app said the temperature was going to be in the mid-20 degree range, so we passed on the outside commemorations. Instead, we decided to go to the Christ Church Cathedral, which was doing five continual hours of readings from Dr. King’s historic speeches and writings.

On the way to the downtown church we stopped for lunch. Tony pointed out a restaurant that had advertised they were giving away free meals to furloughed Federal workers. (It was shortly after 11 AM, and they had just opened. They didn't look very busy.) Thanks to the holiday the downtown streets were quite empty, and we didn't have to feed a parking meter.

When we entered the church two friendly people at a registration desk encouraged us to sign in, and told us what to do if we wanted to take a turn reading. We took seats about halfway back and settled in. There was a screen in front of the altar showing a selection of photos from Dr. King's life, but I also spent some time looking around at the beautiful sanctuary area while I listened.

Eventually Tony decided to go up and read. I was content to stay in my seat and enjoy the beautiful, serene space.but when he returned he encouraged me to take a turn. Eventually I went and sat in the staging area seat next to the lectern until the current speaker was done. As he left he let me know where he left off. I stepped up to the microphone and saw the three-ring binder holding the double spaced pages in nice large font. I read two pages, then stepped down for the next volunteer.

Taking my turn

13 comments:

  1. What a great way to spend Martin Luther King day.

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    1. It was so much better than following the normal daily schedule.

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  2. What a great way to celebrate the day and Dr. King!

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  3. There is so much here, Kathy, for this Canadian. The furloughed workers, MLK day, and the opportunity to take turns reading. It sounds like a very thoughtful way to spend the day.

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    1. It was. We try to make this holiday more than just another day off.

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  4. That's beautiful Kathy! ❤️❤️❤️

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