In 1970, the great singer, Cat Stevens, released a stirring song called “Where Do the Children Play?” It has always been a favorite of mine. I am aware that folks expect a few words of wisdom and encouragement to “kick off” the New Year. I could rattle off one or more of our Seven Principles and … Continue reading New Year Revolution
Thanksgiving (Friendsgiving) is now behind us. November has been a profoundly difficult month. Many people that I have spoken with are expressing deep sadness. Some are even saying that they weren’t really in the attitude of gratitude this Thanksgiving. Some are in despair, lacking any real hope. This is the cold, hard reality for half … Continue reading Holding holiday space
Famed Transcendentalist Henry David Thoreau encouraged his readers to live simply, independently, and wisely. He did note that “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” This “desperation” is characterized by fear, anxiety, doubt, low self-esteem, and resentment. It would appear that not much has changed since his day and age. As we move … Continue reading To look at desperation
October is a wonderful month for the transition between the balmy summer and the clarifying cool of fall. We put away the toys and tools of summer, in order to not only enjoy the charms of fall, but to prepare for the winter. We begin to slow down our rapid pace and even become more … Continue reading Things that go bump in my head
Every Year…A New Beginning The Ingathering each year is always, for me, a strange and challenging time. I get very excited about a new church year. I have a bunch of new ideas that are inspiring me to lead us to greater growth. I am challenged to remember what errors in judgement and leadership I … Continue reading A new beginning
June 9th is the final Sunday service of the church year. Many of us welcome this hiatus. Time will be spent communing with Nature, visiting with family and friends. Sharing food and drink out in the park or backyard will be most welcome to many. It is also a time to reflect on what we … Continue reading Visions of the Future
It’s May! Spring appears to have finally sprung! Even though our thoughts are rapidly moving toward regeneration and growth, we are always mindful of the challenges that face us and our fellow brothers and sisters on this beautiful blue ball called Earth. In recent weeks, I have noticed that the subjects chosen for Sunday services … Continue reading Inherent worth and dignity
The “Holy Days” of March are behind us. Hopefully, many have a renewed Faith, but also a commitment to act upon their faith within their daily lives. As I was preparing the Easter sermon, I was listening to the radio. The reporter shared that a politician had made some very disturbing remarks about illegal aliens … Continue reading Have we learned nothing from history?
People seem to love traditions. People seem to hold fast to beliefs and customs of our ancestors. And yet, we talk about the benefits of change, evolution, and growth. The world is a unique place. On one hand we claim the benefits of Science. On the other hand, we can often be dogmatic and down … Continue reading Persistent, peaceful example
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird.It’s a plane. It’s…Cupid ? Yes, it’s February, the month we dedicate to Love, primarily due to our preoccupation with Valentine and his day. The average American will spend between $131 and $192 this year, expressing devotion towards a dearly beloved. The day has always confused me a … Continue reading Loving-Kindness
