Calpernia Addams: "Finding Hope" Speech

http://www.calpernia.com/diary/index.php/weblog/finding_hope_calpernias_mccny...
Calpernia speaks on "Finding Hope" the the Metropolitan Community Church in New York City, June 22 2003. This was a wonderful trip to New York, and I had a great time with the people of MCCNY. Check my diary link for more info!

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• calpernia
• speech
• finding
• hope
• mccny
• inspirational
• church
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• glbt

[kylekessler1]

Ms. Addams: As a 41 year old wife and mother struggling with my small daily tragedies, thinking I'd be better off (that my family would be better off) if I just gave up, I am humbled by your words, your experiences, and your ability to continue to love in spite of such adversity. I sobbed through your message of hope, acceptance and love and felt God take the wounds from my heart that I have carried since childhood. You are the WOMAN I strive to be. God richly and abundantly bless you!

[CalperniaAddams]

@kylekessler1 Don't give up yet, hon. When I feel like letting go, I ask myself "why not stick around and see what's next." Find the little moments that make the day worth living... a warm bath, a cool shower, a fresh chocolate chip cookie, childhood photos... and take a moment to really enjoy them, knowing full well that the "big problems" don't have to be fixed for you to enjoy the little moments. I try to keep laughing and loving the people who matter in my life.

[homelybill]

I was born a woman, but I may never be the woman you are. Your soul and depth are inspiring and you fully describe the God I know, not the one I was taught about. I haven't seen your movie, but I think it might break my heart. I'm sure it broke yours. I will get the book and read it, at least I can put it down when it becomes too much to handle. All my love to you. Melissa

[CalperniaAddams]

Thank you, Melissa. You sound like a wonderful person, and I appreciate your note!

[darliegoddess]

My favorite part of this speech is the line:

"Steel is not forged in a comfortable place ".

It is an amazing and touching speech.

[john7137]

Wonderful and inspiring!

[HereKittyKittyno1]

I really sat thru this whole video. I only wish I were there to hear it in person.

[HereKittyKittyno1]

you're sweet in this video speaking nicely of your family. I went to church as a child with my family and around 7 was molested by my Sunday school teacher. I have visited other ppl's churches since but it's not the same. I don't try to have religion in the ways that I go worship at one... I have found a place on FB that accepts anyone tho and strangely enuff I think that's the same thing as a church, to a degree. My father does not approve, nor does he like me, so I envy you.

[6672rock]

I hear that speech, and it's proof positive you are a beautiful soul. Mainstream society may reject and fear what it doesn't understand, but the good Lord sees through that and radiates pure love. Every so often, he lets wonderful people like you help get his vision across. God bless you Calpernia, and my thoughts and prayers are with you.

[jamesvt722]

rest In Peace Barry

[tinman721]

Calpernia - i am a member of MCCNY and I was there when you spoke. I just discovered this video, and I am so glad that I now have this to remember that very special day. You are such an inspiration. Howard

[anniefriday13]

Cal,

The more I listen to you, the more hope you give me. God Bless you. You give ALL of us hope. Thank you so very much.

[ElsietheCyberCow]

wow, she is BEAUTIFUL in this video