After a phone call:

I don't make art often, but when I do, I'm pretty proud of it.  I don't think this is even the finished painting though.  Oh well!

Acceptance and understanding.  Sometimes it's hard and sometimes it's surprisingly easy.  What I've concluded (though I'm sure there are many revisions to be made throughout the rest of my life) is:  We understand and/or believe what makes us feel comfortable.  I don't expect anyone to change so I expect the same respect.  I will not debate my faith because it is original to me and it is why I am the person I am today.  If I did not live my life the way I do, then I wouldn't have the same qualities that some admire, and vice versa.  I will listen to what anyone has to say (though when I'm not all that interested I must admit my ADD kicks in) and if I agree, I'll say so.  If I have a better explanation, I will hopefully have the opportunity to give my opinion.  If someone attacks me personally, they're probably wrong and just assuming things.  I will keep an open mind to the best of my abilities.  Some days I don't pray, and others I talk to a high power all day long.  Some days I have more than one God, while others I just have one, and then fewer days it's just me.  I am an unorthodox believer and I'm sure there are plenty more out there just like me.  I hope to become more true to myself whether it's sitting in church not reciting the things I don't understand or just journaling my thoughts like I am doing now.  I pray I am not blinded by something.  May my head be clear, my heart be open, and my brain be in sync.  Prayer is just another way of talking to yourself with a deeper meaning OR a way to connect yourself to the things you don't understand.  Where you go in thought, is where you go.  When I add the word prayer into my thoughts it just seems to sink in deeper.  BUT HEY!  That's just me.