In hard times, Mister Rogers suggested we look to the helpers, and I think that’s us. We Unitarian Universalists are the helpers working to make our world better, and at the same time, we also need support, rest, and inspiration to fuel us.

Where are you finding inspiration? One place I find it is in the words of one of the UU leaders I look up to — Rev. Sofia Betancourt, Ph.D. I have set my web browser with a bookmark so when I open Facebook, it doesn’t open on the Facebook feed, but rather to Rev. Sofia Betancourt’s professional Facebook page with whatever recent writing or post she’s made.

Most recently, she wrote and shared “Choosing to gather in community with others who would put the ideals of love itself first over hatred, over violence, over the misuse of power and control is itself a revolutionary act. It is counter cultural, it is healing, and it reminds us of the collective power we hold together in common cause.

I am not saying that love alone will save us. My prayer is that the power of love will remind us to save ourselves.”

Her words better express what I was feeling and thinking. I’ve also been thinking about how we sustain ourselves and fuel our resilience.

I know we need rest. One restful thing I’ve been doing is not looking at any social media or news after a cut-off time in the evenings to give my nervous system a break for hours before bedtime.

I’ve been trying to spend some time every day – even if just a few minutes – doing a soothing activity like a hobby or even some recreational reading.

What small things do you long for? I wonder if you wish for some time with a hobby or crafting, some community joy playing games, to grow and nurture friendships, or something to spark your joy?

I hope you all come to the RE Open House on Sunday, September 21st, and bring your wishes. Maybe we can see how they might be found and nurtured in our RE program which includes RE Sundays, Youth Group, Parent/Caregiver Support Group, and 1st Saturdays Families’ Nights.

With gratitude,
Leilani