Okay, I never go this route but with recent events I decided to just explore this. I am not a religious individual but I do have faith and believe in certain things. Stress has been a real thing for me in 2025 but my attitude was always “oh well, suck it up, there are people worse off than you and are going through much more tribulations.” However, at some point you have to acknowledge your mental and physical health.
Without going into too much detail, I have been battling with an illness and even went to the ER recently for testing. Fortunately, all tests came back negative. Cleared that hurdle. However, the lingering effects still take its toll. It is not healthy to keep it in. I have learned that.
With that said, during the Easter weekend, a relative of mine was baptized. My family and I attended the event. From the moment I stepped into the church I felt welcomed; and inspired. It was refreshing. When the moment of truth came for my relative to get baptized; he was first and a half dozen others followed. I am proud of him for the decision he made, it was thought out and he did his research.
I myself was baptized in the fall of 2007; and it took me back to that time period in my life. I began to reflect on what it meant and how it changed my life for the better. Now, almost 20 years later, even though I shifted from my church attendance, I still feel like I have a spiritual relationship. I will say that my family and I find the right fit for a church we would attend more, my biggest problem is when football season rolls around I most likely would not attend in person. I would, however, watch online (an option since the pandemic).
It's funny how little things like that will change your perspective on life, health and other happenings in your life. The mega stress I have been under recently seemed to go away for that little period in time as we attended the service and baptism. It was a boost for my morale and spirit as well. My kids seemed to enjoy the music and joy in others. My oldest son was asking me more questions about faith and other things. Only time will tell how this will play out but for now it was a reminder that we need to take time and focus on the positive.
Dennis D. Cruz is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times. He may be reached at drcruz@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 847-3021.
