Day 156 blog

Last night at the Easter Vigil, I was baptized.

Many people don’t know this, but I started RCIA back in the fall. It’s been a quiet journey for me, something very personal. When I was a baby, I was baptized at this same church, but between the ages of 17 and 24, I went through a period where I lost all belief in God. I questioned everything. I struggled with why I had gone through certain things in my life, and over time, I just drifted completely away.

Before starting this journey, I was in a really low place mentally. Not many people knew just how low. It was one of those seasons where you feel lost, disconnected, and just trying to get through each day. My grandma had asked me to go to Mass with her, and that small moment ended up being the start of everything for me.

Last night, standing there during my baptism, I wasn’t nervous. I wasn’t overwhelmed. I just felt peace. A kind of peace that is hard to put into words. It was calm, it was grounding, and it felt like everything in my life had led me to that exact moment.

Today we went to Easter morning Mass, which made it all feel even more real. Being there, fully present, fully committed in my faith, it hit differently. It wasn’t just something I was attending. It was something I was living.

After Mass, We had friends and family over for Easter dinner to celebrate, and it meant so much to be surrounded by people who love and support me. The conversations, the laughter, the hugs, it all felt so full of joy and meaning.

Looking back, it’s crazy to see how much can change. From a place of doubt, hurt, and disconnection to a place of peace, faith, and purpose. I can honestly say this is one of the most meaningful things I have ever experienced.

This weekend, this moment, this step in my life is something I will carry with me forever.

Signed, Paulina.