I’ve always believed that certain places, like church, require a certain level of decorum, including how we dress. So when a woman with vibrant tattoos, multiple piercings, and unconventional clothing walked into Sunday service, I felt uneasy. Everything about her style clashed with my idea of what was respectful in a house of worship. After the service, I decided to speak with her. I politely mentioned that her outfit might not be the most suitable for church and suggested she consider dressing more modestly in the future.
Her response was simple but powerful: “You don’t care about my appearance.” In that moment, I realized she was right. My concern wasn’t really about respect for the church; it was about my own comfort and tradition. I had been so focused on outward appearances that I forgot the core purpose of church—to welcome everyone, regardless of how they look.
That conversation changed my perspective. True faith isn’t about enforcing dress codes or judging others based on their choices. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and accepted. Now, I strive to look beyond appearances and see the person underneath—their story, their struggles, and their desire to belong, just like anyone else.
