Where Thou Lodgest

Deborah did not mess up that gorgeous walk! She did not ruin that perfect stance! But how could she have ruined that sit-down moment? How could that perfectly put-together person ruin everything by crossing her legs at the knees? Did she make it her business to seem imperfect to her audience? Would the Rev. Grayson's sister-in-law, his sons, and others want him to have her as his wife, a lady who had messed up in her first attempt to impress? Strategically planned and executed well, Rev. Grayson had no quarrels; he approved. Where did Deborah Wayfaring get the courage to perform that bold act in the face of High Profiles? Could it be that the qualities in her name affected it from the inside and the boldness resonated outward? She had rocked the Christendom boat. The consequences of too many deviations from the rules, i.e., not following them, could be dire. However, this man must have seen something so unique about her that it really didn't matter. Could it have been something he was searching for but didn't know what it was until he saw it? "Do not mess up like you did yesterday. Walk in like the pristine lady you are. Take your time and show them you are Rev. Grayson's ready material. Show them you can own the room. Continue to reel him in. This is your day, and I repeat, don't mess it up. And cross your legs at the ankles. Do not reveal your intentions until the time is right. And don't leave before you compliment him and say something thoughtful about his message." Deborah rehearsed. Yet, making another bold fashion statement, letting him know that she was also fashion-conscious and trendy, she once again made it her business to show up late, and everyone took notice when she walked in. "A new girl in town is gracing your presence," she smiled. This morning, Deborah glided in, wearing a black double sheer asymmetrical dress, and a pair of red Dolce & Gabbana Patent Leather High Heel Shoes. She sported it with a small black clutch purse on her left arm, leaving that right hand free to shake hands. And she sat midway in that large conference hall—all eyes on her. Not to seem too standoffish, she found her rightful place among the other women. She sat down and crossed her legs at the ankles. And she positioned her small purse on her lap. Deborah gazed over at the crowd, and she saw Albert, an old high school classmate. Without a word, she twirled her hand high in the air. He stood there staring, and he smiled at her big piercing eyes and her big flirty smile. That gesture was sure to capture the Rev. Hal's attention. This sent a buzz throughout the conference room. Why did Albert show up today? In high school, Deborah had a huge crush on this guy. I don’t know whether his feelings were mutual. This was so divinely crafted; it seemed divinely inspired. It helped her seal the deal. Also sitting beside Albert was her first-grade best friend, Celestine. Deborah had hoped one day to see her and rekindle their childhood friendship. Unfortunately, when she saw Celestine at the homecoming tailgate party, she didn't remember any of those fond childhood memories. She did not remember how she helped her get those As and Bs in that class. That was so disappointing for Deborah! And after the tailgate party, Deborah returned home disheartened from that awful encounter. And so, Deborah glanced forward to see what Rev. Grayson would do with that handwave-in-the-crowd gesture. His expression was epic. That was the response she had hoped for. And now, it was as if they had the whole conference room to themselves; it was as if they communicated telepathically. He gave her a soliloquy and quickly turned his head and continued his message. "Now leave all comments at the front door," Deborah telepathically communicated throughout the building. Now that Deborah had acclimated herself to the conference environment, she made small talks with the women, especially Octavia, the conference secretary. This was all the while strategizing, and gathering more information about Rev. Harold Grayson. But Deborah had some more tricks up her sleeves. Could she pull off the next big move? When everything was said and done, Deborah walked up to Rev. Grayson and Octavia walked closely behind her. With a flirty smile, she remarked, "Pastor Grayson those words on sowing seeds were so inspiring. I know you are a generous man because you spoke from your heart, and you have contributed so generously to God's people. Those words certainly inspired me to give with a sincere heart. I pray that everyone in this room will give abundantly so that you can meet your financial goals for the week and throughout the rest of the year." She gave him a huge smile, turned, and walked away with that famous catwalk. She hoped that his eyes were still glued to her as she walked away. She looked back at him and winked. Did she just break another etiquette rule? She could not have played that temptatious act any better than at that moment. That was actually her signature bold move.