Jump On In

Time2bCatholic.com

The sharks were circling 15 feet above me - doing what I remember as the swimming version of pacing.  They knew the guy with the shark-Friskies would be opening the bucket soon...  It was freeing and awe-inspiring to be so close to what is often feared...   The diver friends I was on vacation with opted to stay on shore, hugging their perception of safety.  But there I was, kneeling on the sand in a circle of other Bahamas tourist-divers.  Yup, thirty years ago I was an adventurous diver.  Night dives, wreck dives - all over the Caribbean...   But I haven't been in a Scuba suit in twenty years.  Those of you who know me now are smiling...and thankful!   I passed the academic and open-water course in Grand Cayman.  I have the lifetime PADI-Diver card.  Do I still call myself a diver?  Confidently (and longingly) yes.  Now if I went down again, I'd totally need and want a refresher course...but sure: once a diver, always one.   'Course as a convert to Catholicism, now I'd have to find a dive shop near a Catholic parish.

And so if you haven't been to Mass in 20 years - jump in.  Diving may have changed in twenty years, but Catholicism, and Jesus, are the same.  'Going to Confession for a refresher might be in order... (heads up that sin hasn't changed a bit either... ). Once a Catholic, always a Catholic.  Jesus, the most awe-inspiring of all, is waiting for you. And after twenty years, you'll have a totally different relationship with Sister Mary-Shark.  No fear!