Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m a clergyman, right? You’d think my days are all about peace and quiet, but nah, not today. Royal Oak, NZ, you’ve outdone yourself. First off, I woke up late. Classic me. Alarm didn’t go off. I’m sprinting down Manukau Road, dodging cars like I’m in some action movie. I mean, c’mon, it’s a Sunday! Who’s in a rush? Apparently, everyone. I finally get to the church, and guess what? The door’s locked! Like, really? I’m the clergyman! I should have the keys! So, I’m standing there, looking like a lost puppy, when I see Mrs. Thompson from down the street. She’s always got that crazy cat, Mr. Whiskers, with her. She’s like, “Oh, dear, you’re late!” Thanks, Mrs. T, real helpful. I finally get in, and the service is packed. I mean, packed! I’m talking standing room only. I start my sermon, and halfway through, the fire alarm goes off. Seriously? In the middle of my heartfelt message about kindness? I’m trying to keep it together while everyone’s looking around like they’re in a horror movie. I’m like, “Stay calm, folks! It’s just a drill!” But deep down, I’m thinking, “Who’s gonna save me from this chaos?” After the service, I’m feeling a bit better. I head over to Royal Oak Mall. Gotta grab a coffee, right? I’m standing in line at the café on the corner of the mall, and this guy in front of me orders a “triple-shot, half-caf, soy latte with extra foam.” I’m like, “Dude, it’s coffee, not a science experiment!” But whatever, I’m not judging. I finally get my flat white, and I’m feeling good. I sit down, and out of nowhere, this kid runs past me, chasing a soccer ball. He kicks it, and boom! Right into my table. Coffee everywhere! I’m soaked! I’m like, “Great, just what I needed.” But the kid’s laughing, and I can’t help but chuckle too. Kids, man. They make everything better. Then, I decide to take a stroll down Royal Oak’s main street. You know, the one with all the shops and cafes? I pass by the bakery on the corner of Pah Road. The smell of fresh bread hits me like a wave. I can’t resist. I grab a pie. Best decision ever! It’s like a party in my mouth. I’m munching away, feeling like a king. But then, I see this protest happening outside the council building. People are holding signs about something—probably something important, but honestly, I’m too busy enjoying my pie. I mean, priorities, right? But then I see my buddy, Dave, from the community center. He’s all fired up, waving a sign. I’m like, “What’s going on, man?” He tells me they’re fighting for better youth programs. I’m all for that! So, I join in, pie in hand, shouting slogans. It’s wild! After that, I head back home, and I’m just exhausted. I plop down on my couch, and I can’t help but think about the day. It was a rollercoaster. From being late to the fire alarm, to coffee spills and protests. Royal Oak, you’re a wild ride. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I mean, who knew a day in this little corner of NZ could be so packed with surprises? I’m just a clergyman, but today, I felt like a part of something bigger. And that’s what it’s all about, right?