Chapter 10: A Cappella

Standing, knees bent, feet firmly planted on the ground, my forehead opens up with the sounds that are emitting from my core.  I lift my voice, my heart, my soul, in a celebration of the savior.  I breath from my diaphragm, I sing with such passion and freedom, the notes bathing over those around me.  Collectively, we come together in song, a wellspring of purity and kindness and joy.  We resonate peace and love.  And forgiveness.  An a cappella baptism of harmony. In between songs, my head pounds, the migraine beating deep into my brain, swelling out though my eyes, pushing my teeth up and out of my gums.  But when I open my mouth in worship, and sing the praises of the Lord, I am free of pain once again.  Light radiates from my face and I am full of tranquility and hope once again. +++ Early morning, I am awoken by the sound of my bedroom door flying open. “Get up,” barks my stepmother.  ”Get dressed.  We’re going out.” I look over at my alarm clock, and 6:00 am stares back at me.  I know better than to ask questions. I have not survived this long by being stupid.  So I [...]