I had a chance to pause. The day’s rat race was complete and here I was surrounded by my colleagues. It was peaceful and quiet. A fragrant smell hung in the air like incense; it only added to the scene of serenity.

The warm liquid washed over me; drowning my body in bliss. It felt so sweet and yet bitter. Was this what He meant when he spoke about repentance every Sunday? It was also soothing. I could feel each minuscule drop travel over my skin. It tickled my nerves and filled me with joy. Time just stood still in that instant.

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The preacher took his time taking that first swallow of green tea. He thought how he felt when he was first baptized and wondered if his tongue felt the same way.