On June 12 at 3:45 a.m., I was absolutely lit on fire. 

Truly, there is no other explanation. I felt like I could have run a marathon (and I hate running). The passion and excitement are still pulsing through my body.

Using buzzwords and phrases like “lit on fire,” especially when it relates to the Divine (or, in any capacity, not just with God), feels trite. And even though I don’t like saying it, I often find myself clinging to a cliché or analogy; it seems like the only way sometimes to land the plane. (See what I did there.)

I’ve done a lot of reflecting as my Angelico chapter comes to a close. Being introspective, retrospective, and broadening my perspective (all the spectives) is a gift I’m so grateful for. My insights and revelations over the past 11 days since the gala seem innumerable. So, for the sake of time and efficiency, I will share this. What The Angelico Project did for me is exactly what the “process” is intended to do – Encounter Beauty, Seek the Sacred, and Transform the Culture. 

I have encountered SO…MUCH…BEAUTY in the last 2 years. The talent and gifts that people possess are absolutely incredible. I’ve stood in absolute awe in front of breathtaking artwork. I’ve listened to musicians sing in a manner that makes the veil between heaven and earth feel almost non-existent. I’ve been blown away by talented actors and moved by thought-provoking speakers.

The art, thought, and culture I experienced only led me deeper and deeper into the richness of my faith in a way I didn’t realize was possible. I feel like I had the heart part down (most days)…but my knowledge and desire to understand Truth on a deeper level increased the head part. The intentionality of God feels almost magical. A conductor of the most beautiful orchestra uniting heaven and earth. The opportunity to seek the sacred through Mass and Sacred Architecture Tours was not “new” to me, but I experienced it in a new way. 

A week before the gala, I was talking to our designer about some of his (amazing) rebranding work. We discussed options and ideas around the logo, and after that conversation, I was pretty convinced that the symbol of the flame used in the logo needed to go. Later that day, I was working on a project (that has ultimately changed the course of my life) with the incredible artist and now my lifelong friend, Holly Schapker. She said something profound, which isn’t uncommon for Holly – she said, “Angelico is the fire where you come to warm your hands.” And something clicked. Unlocked. Broke open. So clearly, the flame needs to stay. And not only did Angelico warm my hands, it warmed my heart, and set my soul on fire. I pray that I can transform the culture in the way that I’ve been inspired to do so.

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord. And my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”

Luke 1: 46-47

I am forever grateful to my friend for reaching out to me and randomly asking about a book recommendation for hiring. What transpired from there is the unfolding of one of my favorite chapters during one of the hardest, darkest, and most uncertain times in my life. 

Thank you to everyone who was a part of this journey. I have gained even more incredible people in my circle, and I am so incredibly blessed. 

Onward!