You could say Midnight Mass is about what happens when evil masquerades as good, but I think it’s more complex than that, and more relevant. At its core, it addresses who we are as humans experiencing life, the role faith and belief play in our existence, and ultimately, the nature of God. While it offers up some of the most horrifying theology I’ve ever witnessed, what is revealed in the final episodes is some of the most beautiful.

Prayer is hoping you are doing well then seeing a hummingbird at my rose of sharon.

Wrapping my dog’s medication in soft bread.

Remembering all of the earlier versions of myself with respect and fondness.

Deep night, the dome of stars, locating Venus in the sky.

When I was a young woman, walking down the street deep in thought, a man I did not know would say to me, "Smile, it can't be that bad...Why would a pretty girl like you look so unhappy?"

It happened quite a bit.

If you are a woman, I'm willing to bet it has happened to you - a stranger has told you to smile.