Lifting the Veil

OK... first things first: Happy Birthday to me! More on my birthday later when I can upload pictures. I had an awesome birthday party last night, and even with visions of dancing tigers in my head, my mind has landed back on the readings for this Sunday. And I'm jazzed that the readings are clearly connected together with the theme of putting on a veil, pulling back said veil... and the incredible transformation witnessed by only a few where Jesus is transfigured... a massive unveiling, and a brightness that would shine through any drape.
What immediately came to my mind when going through the readings was the thought of how we mask ourselves all the time. Depending on where we are, who we are with, I think many of us don't always show who we truly are because of fear. I know that's why I put on a veil.
But I do find it harder and harder to hide those things which are core to who I am. This includes being a lesbian, and being a lesbian who believes in Christ as God. As God continues to mold and shape me, I feel that part of what comes through is the brightness. Because God drives the darkness out.
And so I reflect back on a poem that I wrote in January 2008.

KNOWING
To be known is to allow all that is within you
to also live outside of you.
To remove the uniform, unveil the eyes.
To allow light into the shadows of your heart,
and air to flow freely through your body.
To be known is exposure of the soul
to a trust of universal love and unconditioned good.
To be seen in all beauty and imperfection and still deemed worthy.
To be known is redemption.
Step out into the light, and laugh out loud!

Happy Valentine's Day! I'll give y'all a full birthday report later today!!