Day 11: Monday, February 18

I was born and raised in the Roman Catholic Church, meaning I grew up being told the “rightness with God” only came if I sat with a priest in a booth and confessed all my bad deeds.

I knew this was important, but I still hated going. I always felt intimidated because I never knew what to say to this complete stranger. I viewed myself as a genuinely good kid who never did anything “sinful.” But because I wanted to get the process over quickly, I’d always figure out one or two bold things to confess, receive my assignment, and perform my penance. Presto! Instant absolution.

This was what confession was about for me as a kid. Confess to something—anything—and you’re off the hook.

But now I’m an adult and able to say this mindset, that of a child, is completely behind me, right?

Wrong.

There are still times when I find it difficult to admit any wrong-doing—even to trivial things, and even to God. I don’t really know why. Maybe I’m embarrassed, or maybe

I’m just in plain denial. But whatever the reason, it is silly—unacceptable, even—-for me to think and act in a way that keeps me from admitting wrong-doing.

Jesus sacrificed his life so we could be recipients of the Lord’s unconditional love and forgiveness. The Bible states that God will always forgive our sins; all He asks is that we be honest with ourselves and openly ask for His mercy.

Adam Modzelesky