I wouldn’t be able to leave my last post in good faith without adding a few things I’ve missed. Many, many people–affiliate of this particular group or not–have approached me for what I’ve written. I stand by every word, however, I need you all to realize that this sentiment is not all-encompassing. In every group of people there are some misguided souls and bad seeds, but quite often those people are the minority. This is no different. Many (MANY) of the people in this particular group at Silver Bay have become friends whose hearts, thoughts and friendship matter deeply to me. These are people who give themselves for others, who do all they can to make other people feel loved, even when they are in need of loving themselves.

It  pains me to know that I’ve hurt these people by my words on here. I’m simply trying to understand some of the rules and practices that sound just so wrong to me, and I’m venting about things I’ve felt have changed. I KNOW that those of you I’ve let into my life and have reciprocated love for would NEVER judge me, my choices, or push your beliefs onto me. But you know that there are some people in your group, some bad seeds, that muddy the beautiful image you represent for your group. I want you all to know that as individuals, you are strong, good-willed, beautiful human beings and I cherish our friendship. Unfortunately, when writing about a group, quite often a sweeping generalization is the more respectable way to go about starting the conversation. Pointing fingers publicly isn’t my style. If you want a play by play of the good, bad and ugly, I’ll be in-country for a week and a half. Please come find me.

I hope those of you who are part of this group, who I love and respect, can respect the fact that I’m standing by what I’ve said. I never intended to hurt anyone I love, but these are MY beliefs, thoughts and questions, and I need you to respect them as I do yours. I apologize if what was said implied that I didn’t respect you, your choices or beliefs; that was certainly not my intent. But maybe, if you can just try to see it from my side, maybe you can help reel those rogue souls in. I would hate to see a group of wonderful humans vanish from campus because of a few (honestly, it’s mostly men) who make people outside that group feel judged and uncomfortable. Maybe, instead of focusing on the rest of the world, the judgement and conversation should be turned inward to this group. Even just one conversation can be an eye-opener.

I am a sinner, yes, but I am not a sin. I honestly couldn’t care less what most people think of me. I got over that shit a long time ago. But for the people that DO care and who ARE spiritual and religious, outside this group, think about how they feel being told that they’re wrong and they’re going to hell…even if their church tells them different. I implore EVERYONE in ALL situations to play devil’s advocate and look at issues from all sides, including (and especially) the ones you staunchly disagree with.

In closing, some of the best friends I’ve made this summer are part of this group or are otherwise deeply spiritual and I do not mean to imply that they are the “problem” here. They are beautiful human beings who have taught me so much, who I am lucky to know. I love you beautiful people and I’m sorry that I’ve hurt you.