Sunrise service by the sea this morning as Sam baptized a small group of new members who alternately shook with nervousness, wept with joy and smiled with an adoration only reserved for these sorts of events. I had the lucky position of playing helper in that I was right at the edge of the action taking photo and video, and holding bibles, phones, handbags, wallets, glasses, anything they didn't want to see ruined by seawater. Most wore swim trunks and dress shirts (men) or swimsuits with an old dress over top for women, and sandals so it wasn't a huge deal.
John played towel boy.
Remind me to have some small totes printed up so we can put their things into totes they can keep as a memento. Way more fun than a new bible. No one needs those.
Bridget-
It's true, they really don't, Sam.
I'm driving his (Kia) Soul home because he hates driving in his wetsuit. Too restrictive, he says.
So change, I always tell him.
Takes too long.
For a minister you're very stubborn.
I think it's a job requirement, he winks at me.
You know? You're right!
Thanks for all of the help today. Only the morning people can hack this lifestyle.
I don't mind. I love watching people's faces.
You want to do it?
Do what?
Be baptized?
I was when I was eight in the United Church.
But Jake didn't do it?
No.
That really surprises me, Bridge.
He probably would have eventually.
Hey, we're home. Let's make some breakfast, I'm starved.
His glaring subject change does nothing to wash away my sudden debilitating doubt. Why wouldn't you want to save your own wife? Why didn't he do that first? He baptized both children before they were a year old, by my request.
He knew it was already too late, that's why.
(Here comes my memory thief.) Bridget, don't think like that-
But it's true, isn't it, Sam?
I can't speak for Jacob. He isn't here.
And that's the problem, isn't it?
