The first was a graduation ceremony for the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission. I've been to one of these ceremonies before and I was really moved both times by the lives being changed and the souls being rescued through the people who commit and often volunteer their lives to helping others get their lives back on track!
The SBRM does many things and I don't think I can define or explain everything that goes on over there but the reality check that I was given while hearing these incredible people tell their stories was something that needs to happen in my life more often.
Secondly, my church is currently undergoing a big building project and the next night we had a get together where everyone could write something on the floor where the new stage is going to be. I absolutely love the people at my church - Reality Carp - It truly is as it's name suggest - REAL.
The people there are so genuine and true and I'm constantly inspired as well as convicted by their openness and obedience to God.
There is an article in this month's INC. magazine that is titled "Successful, yes, but still searching for happiness" and one of the things it points out is that, "to achieve happiness, you must enjoy doing your best while contributing to something beyond yourself."
jk. Thanks for posting all the images. You rock!