U2, Tribe Called Quest and Rev. Brenda Salter McNeil

I am one of the rare breed that actually likes to be preached at -- but it's gotta be good stuff. Not like meaningless, vague Bible-ese that sometimes gets thrown from the pulpit. For those who have no concept of why this is appealing, the closest I can compare it to would be attending a live show of a band you love: there is something about the music that moves your soul, the words and beat that your whole being can resonate with a "Now, that's right." You know there's nothing better than what you're hearing right then, that it's hard to duplicate the feeling and experience to those not present, other than to fellow worshippers of the band. (Do I hear a hey? Do I get a yo?)

This morning I heard a sermon entitled, "The Power of Weakness." Now that's something that makes me want to listen on. If ever asked what compels me to continue living what very few understand, this topic might be it. For a person who in general wears her heart on her sleeve (and sometimes gets herself in trouble for it), and has delved into situations and conversations that have called for honesty or unabashed apology (and not always met with the same), the word of God's power showing up only when we are weak is a word that brings makes me exhale.

Our democratic culture of so-called freedom and equal opportunity (don't even get me started on that one) says: achieve and succeed, your happiness depends on you -- your charm, your looks, your sex appeal, your social skills, your money, your ability to manipulate, your this your that, and for sure your strength in all of the above. Draining. I'm glad I follow a God that says the least will be on top, and those who are in touch with and admit the whole truth of their weakness and hand it over will get props in a big way -- especially since it will always be a ballsy move, no one ever does this. Now that's pretty good security for me, given my laundry list of issues...

Does this sound like the perfect relationship to you? I mean seriously, when does weakness and neediness equal security with a man?