See Me Fashion Show

When a Local Event Became a Holy Moment

I was honored to be a guest at the See Me Fashion Show Fundraiser hosted by REACH Columbus, Inc. this past Friday evening.

For some background, REACH is a nonprofit organization started by a group of Columbus, Indiana mothers who saw a need for their adult children with disabilities. They organized and enlisted the community’s help to create a day program that provides experiences, activities, and employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In just two short years, this vital program has grown from 18 participants to over 100 today.

Amazing.

When I walked into the event, I was overwhelmed by the turnout. I’m not great at estimating, but I’d guess there were between 400 and 500 attendees. The energy in the room was festive and palpable. As I took my seat, I watched everyone mingling and laughing, filled with so much joy. I noticed people along the side of the room, carefully perusing the auction items. Then I spotted the evening’s stars—the program participants—moving from table to table, talking with family and friends, clearly excited about the upcoming fashion show and the sold-out crowd awaiting their performance.

After dinner and a very entertaining auction, everyone settled in for the evening’s spectacle. One by one, with music themed to match their personalities, each participant walked the runway in a fashion design that best represented their interests and unique character. Every time the emcee announced a participant, the crowd erupted with cheers. Their elation was unforgettable as they stood at the end of the runway, beaming from ear to ear. At the conclusion, all the participants gathered on stage to a raucous standing ovation.

It wasn’t just perfect—it was a sacred moment.

I’ve heard others use the ancient phrase ‘thin spaces’ to describe moments where the veil between heaven and earth seems to disappear. In those transcendent places, the goodness of God floods into the present, filling us with awe and wonder. I’ve experienced those kind of moments only a handful of times in my life. But that’s exactly what happened at the REACH Columbus fashion show. The veil between heaven and earth disappeared, and the goodness of God was among us, showing what community looks like when we love and care for one another without condition. I was honored not only to be a guest at this incredible gathering, but to be part of a community that so beautifully embodies love, care, and the recognition of the Divine in every person.

Question

How can I contribute to creating ‘thin spaces’ in my community, where love, support, and every person’s inherent value are at the center?

To partner with REACH Columbus and their mission of providing experiences and activities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, please donate here.

Peace,

Brandon