We all stood under an old walnut tree, gathered around a homemade alter with a basin and jug set upon it.
A female ordained priest led the ancient ceremony of christening the child into the christian faith. The sun broke out as we sang a hymn
of praise. Two young people provided the musical backing and all the family and friends stood by watching and smiling.
After the ceremony an old family relative walked among the guests playing her accordian and everyone was singing and smiling.
We sang a song to Hollyrose and signed in the deaf signs as we watched the young girl who lead us. Tears poured down my face as I looked around the forty or so assorted ages gently waving their hands and singing to Hollyrose.
We were not family, just new friends to the two mums that were having thier child christened. They never gave it a thought that we in the past would never have been at such an occasion, not just because of the religious element but also because of their lifestyle. I felt so humbled, so privilaged to be asked to witness this private event.
The love I felt wrapped around us that day will be something I will never forget. It is so strange that I attended a funeral two weeks ago and felt the same feelings of humilty, awe and deep appreciation for being included in something so extremely personal and private. Two events that as a witness I would have looked upon as "spiritually unclean"....oh how ashamed I am, and I can only thank the friends I have made since I have left for their deep tolerance and embracing love. I stand the sinner, asking for forgiveness for my ignorance.
A truly wonderful day under the old walnut tree.
Chicken little