by Josh Reid

Happening, a weekend that I will never forget.This event called “Happening” took place April 16-18.My parents had signed me up for this, but at the same time I had a state choral event to go to in Nashville. I was extremely disappointed when I found out that I was going to have to skip out of my choral event to go to this church retreat. I basically thought that it was going to be another weekend of boredom. Boy, was I wrong!

When I arrived, the people there treated me as their best friend, even though they didn’t even know me. This was unexpected, but was a very pleasant surprise. Throughout the weekend we sang, had group discussions, and spoke to one another in small groups.

I was put into a group with seven other people. It was very odd at first because I knew none of these people, but three out of the eight knew each other very well. Even though I did not know them, they treated me as family. We developed a very strong bond throughout the weekend and I bawled my eyes out when it was time to leave. I was so surprised that in two and a half days I could develop such strong friendships.

Most of the time you go to a retreat, make some friends, and then its no big deal when you have to leave. This was totally different.

The most amazing aspect of this weekend retreat was the fact that I did not have to put on a mask to be accepted.

I could just be myself and everyone liked me. The only bad part of this trip was facing the fact that I would have to go back to the “real” world and face all of the people in school where I do wear a mask to be accepted. So, to sum it all up, this weekend was totally and absolutely awesome!!!!

Josh Reid is a parishioner at St. James, Greeneville.

Read more about "Happening" www.Happening.org