If it were not for the Inspirational Sounds Gospel Choir being banned from the McKenzie Bridge Christian Church, I would never have become a Nazarite. A day ago Marilyn told me a good story that I can’t repeat.

My old secular friends are not happy when I got religion. They think I am trying to be better than they. It is required in the Twelve Steps of AA that I seek a higher power. Nazarite abstain from alcohol. That was the desired goal. I am 30 years sober.

Marilyn took me to see Black Orpheus when she was fifteen. Before we exchanged words, I believe she made it her task to render me a religious human bein. I dance the Bolero for her. M told me about the rituals she was subjected to upon reaching puberty. The Mexican girls in the hood, did her hair, and put their make-up.

South…