I am unsure if this is the correct thread in which to post the message I wish to share. I will try to stay within the format of the previous responses. Please feel free to edit/move this post to a more appropriate thread if necessary.
1. Real first name or Nameday Name
Real name: Steve
2. What jurisdiction your parish is in. (OCA, Greek, etc.)
ROCOR, but please refer to story below...
3. Status:
Inquirer, but please refer to story below...
4. Any other interesting pits of information you want to share:
I will be as concise as possible, but I truly believe that I am embarking on an important journey and, as such, am overcome by a desire to share this experience.
Not that I would normally summarize my life to present in just two details, but there are two points that are notably influential as pertains to where I find myself now. In early 2010, I made the decision to abstain from alcohol and have followed that decision faithfully ever since. 2nd detail: In August of last year, I relocated to Washington, D.C.
Since moving to D.C., I have dedicated myself to my personal growth, both physically and mentally. Other than my work companions, I have done this pretty much in isolation; immersing myself almost totally in running, weight-lifting, reading, and writing.
In my effort to stimulate myself intellectually, I began to study the Russian language. This study led me to Russian history which, inevitably, led me to reading about Orthodox Christinianity.
Even during my cursory reading about the tradition, I felt compelled in a way before unknown to me to learn more. Last weekend, I met with a Priest from a ROCOR Cathedral here in D.C. for discussion, and left the experience more interested in Orthodox Christianity than when I had entered. I wish to not make more of the feeling for fear of being taking for hyperbole, but my desire to inquire about Orthodox Christianity certainly feels to me likely something much more than intellectual interest.
I should note that I have been throughout life agnostic in my personal religious belief, despite having studied religion academically in college; religious studies was one of my dual majors.
As a gift from the Cathedral, I was given a copy of The Orthodox Way, which I am currently reading voraciously. I passionately thirst to learn more and, despite never being personally Spiritually prior to considering Orthodox Christianity, I am now overcome by the sense that my life would be much more fulfilling should I fully embrace this tradition to which I am currently being introduced.
I look forward to learning more, hope to use this forum as a means to aid in doing so, and thank you sincerely for allowing me to share this deeply meaningful experience.
Thank you.