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I was an elder in my first grade class, already seven in November…(Mother held me back due to reading issues.) Well, I heard at church children aged seven were eligible to receive their first communion. After Mass, I cornered the old, cranky pastor and asked if I could make my First Communion in May and not wait the year to make it with my class in second grade. He gave me a slip of paper that said YES and I joined the parish class preparing for the event scheduled for the first Sunday in May. All was going well until a day in April. I was quite active in our local park (Peers) in Palo Alto. The director, Miss Kay, called me into her office and showed me a beautiful purple cape with a lace collar, a diamond crown and a gold scepter. “Marcy, you have been selected to be the queen of Peers Park in the Palo Alto May Day parade! You will ride on our float and wave to the crowds.” I ran home to tell my mother. “Marcy, this is wonderful but it is on the same day as your First Confession. You can postpone your First Communion until next year and make it with your class and be queen or give up the crown.” I remember contemplating my choice. I chose my first communion. I am grateful to my mother for trusting me. But looking back, I treasure the opportunity I was handed at this young age to prioritize my values. Thanks, mom.

I agree with the analogy of spiritual practices as fast food. I’ve discovered in my 81 years that spiritual practice is best in the context of a community of faith. Spirality alone can lead one to selfishness. A community of faith challenges one to reach out to others.