The stage lights grew dim and created a golden haze over the wooden beams that stood front and center inside the hot, crowded chapel. It was then, at the conclusion of our worship, that Mr. Reed stepped out from behind the shadows of backstage. A cross had been moved to stand directly beside him. It was empty.

Mr. Reed proceeded to share a message. He communicated the simple fact that students and teachers alike were broken, messy, and imperfect. He mentioned that as a student body we can often be quick to cover up our bruises, our setbacks, and insecurities. So, he stood there intently, encouraging us to share, reflect and post. It was my sophomore year at WCS during chapel time at Warrior Week.

He began to pass out Post-It Notes, making sure everyone had one to write on; pens were passed down along the rows. Next, one-by-one, students began to stand and approach the stage. Seniors were the first to stand up; juniors, sophomores, and freshmen followed, all carrying their yellow Post-It Notes to the cross. They, along with myself, stood face-to-face with the cross and posted away. Our flaws were pierced by the nails pre-arranged on the wood, which created an uncanny resemblance to the nails that pierced Christ’s hands.